When the NY Islanders won the Max Shabanov sweepstakes this summer, the scouting report was that they were getting a highly skilled, undersized forward. Through two NHL games, Shabanov has been just that, scoring his first career goal in his first game, and showing off his skillful ingenuity with a slick spin move in last night's game that nearly led to a goal.
Despite all the intrigue surrounding Shabanov’s offensive prowess entering his first season in North America, one of the more surprising facets of the Russian’s game has been his defense.
Shabanov is getting it done on both ends of the ice
Standing only 5’8”, his modest demeanor leads one to believe that he’d struggle with strength on the puck and play within his own zone.