VIKTOR NEUCHEV

2024-12-15

Scout: Craig Wise

Skating:

Average, nothing stands out with his skating.

Passing/Handling:

Above average, shifty little moves that can make defense bite on. Shows confidence when carrying the puck, and can set up high danger scoring plays when given time and space.

Shooting:

Average shot, but above average at getting shots off in high danger areas. The games I watched, he very easily could have had a couple goals in each.

IQ (Vision, Anticipation, Panic/Poise):

Above average at finding open ice and getting good looks in. Shows confidence and low panic meter when carrying the puck.

Forechecking:

Slightly below average, throws the odd check around when pursuing the puck, but will not be known for his BASH.

Defense:

Average, solid defensive effort. Not part of the penalty kill, but is able to hold his own at 5 on 5.

Best Asset:

Neuchev's best asset is his ability to throw a quick move around the defender to open himself up for a shot on goal.

Biggest Concern:

Neuchev doesnt have one great thing that will be his ticket to the NHL. So my concern will be even if he does make it, he may not be fantasy relevant unless its a deep league.

Top Tier/Role Potential:

Tier 3, 60 point player with below average BASH.

Justification for Top Tier Assessment:

If all breaks right he could see middle 6 action but the BASH isn't there.

50th Percentile Tier/Role:

Tier 3

Justification for 50th Percentile Tier Assessment:

Bottom 6 player with flashes of offense and limited BASH.

Stylistic Comparable:

Reminds me of a Mackie Samoskevich with a bit lesser of a shot.

Scouts Final Thoughts and Additional Stats/Info:

Choose this player as Lance Lyseowski tweeted out that Sabres had first round grade on this player but got him in the 3rd. And dating back to Jan 2023 he has gone just under a ppg in the AHL.

Games Scouted:

Utica, Laval and Bellville