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#29. Stanislav Galiev | RW | St. John (QMJHL)

Date of Birth: January 17th, 1992
Height: 6.01
Weight: 178lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 67GP 15G 45A 60P 38PIM
Playoffs | 17GP 8G 11A 19P 14PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: 25 | Position Rank: 21st Forwards
League Rank: 3rd QMJHL | Country Rank: 5th Russia

Over the past few years the “Russian Factor” has impacted the NHL draft in that teams aren’t certain that the Russian players will commit to an NHL career.  Stanislav Galiev appears to have taken steps to ease that fear.  While many prospects choose to stay in Russia through their draft year and beyond, Galiev took an unconventional route by completing 2 entire seasons prior to being drafted.  As a 16 year old, Galiev came to North America to play in the USHL as a member of the Clark Cup champion Indiana Ice in 2008-2009 prior to completing this season with the Saint John Seadogs of the QMJHL.  It appears that Galiev has adjusted off the ice as well as on the ice and seems prepared to embark on a productive NHL career.

Galiev’s creativity stands out as you watch him play.  He is able to generate offense for himself through some nifty puck handling as well as the ability to get shots on goal from anywhere in the offensive zone.  Galiev is also adept at drawing defensemen toward him and then quickly floating a pass to an open teammate.  Galiev sees the ice well and anticipates the play developing.  He often makes passes to open areas for his linemates or pinching defenseman to skate into.  Galiev is a good skater with a quick first step and acceleration.  He also has a nice wide base that allows him to have good balance and an ability to protect the puck against bigger, stronger players.  That skill will only improve as Galiev adds some muscle to his 178lb. frame.  Galiev is very confidant and willing to handle the puck along the boards as well as pay the price in front of the net.  Offensively, the hope is that Galiev can improve his finishing skills.  He was 4^th on his team with 175 shots on goal but had a paltry 8.6% shooting pct.  On the plus side as mentioned earlier, Galiev’s has a knack of finding the net.  However, at times he may have been able to exercise a little more patience instead of forcing a shot.

Defensively, Galiev will back check with the same determination as he would a loose puck in the offensive zone.  He also is effective on the forecheck with his speed and takes the proper angle.  Galiev just needs to be as strong on the puck in the defensive zone as he is in the offensive zone.  At times, when he intercepts the puck in his own zone, he appears uncertain as to what he should do with it.  Also, while Galiev doesn’t shy away from contact, he doesn’t protect the puck as well in his own zone as he does when he’s generating offense.  He just needs to develop a better understanding of the defensive game and gain confidence in his decision making in that regard.  Galiev’s decision to come to North America at an early age could be seen as indicative of his dedication to developing into the best NHL player he can be.

Pros:   Offensive creativity and skills

Cons:  Needs to be more aware defensively, could use goal scoring ability to match chances

Skillset comparison:  Claude Giroux

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Tags: 2010 nhl draft prospects, Scouting Report, Stanislav Galiev

About the Author: Rich Michalowski