Arizona Coyotes Select Dimitri Simashev 6th Overall.

In a move that stunned many, the Coyotes take the first “reach” of the draft in selecting the 6’4” mobile defenseman out of Russia.

Reasons for optimism

Simashev immediately steps into the role of Coyotes top defensive prospect. The only guy they have with top-pair upside was definitely a position of need. Arguably the highest upside at the position in the draft, with both his size and skating, has some great potential. Good defensive instincts.

Reasons for caution

Lack of production at both the MHL and KHL levels leaves worries about his future offensive ceiling and to be a true top pair guy playing top minutes, you can’t be a negative on that end. Was going a defenseman the best route with some of the elite forward talent still available? Russian contract for at least two seasons and Russian teams don’t care as much about development, especially of players that they know will go overseas. There will always be a question mark on any Russian player coming over.

Overall

Simashev is a very high-risk/high-reward swing. If he hits, the Coyotes will have a top-pairing defenseman or defensive anchor of a second pair. If he misses, there will always be questions about why they passed on some of the forward talent taken in that range.


Discover more from Inside The Rink

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Leave a Reply

The Toronto Maple Leafs Trade Ryan Reaves to San Jose Sharks for Henry Thrun

The Toronto Maple Leafs Trade Ryan Reaves to San Jose Sharks for Henry Thrun

The Toronto Maple Leafs Trade Ryan Reaves to San Jose Sharks for Henry Thrun

Read More
AHL: Long Tenured Bridgeport Goalie Signs With San Jose

AHL: Long Tenured Bridgeport Goalie Signs With San Jose

The San Jose Sharks today signed a long-tenured Bridgeport goalie who seemed like he was heading overseas but returns back to North America for the 2025-26 season.

Read More
Pittsburgh Penguins Acquire Matt Dumba From Dallas Stars

Pittsburgh Penguins Acquire Matt Dumba From Dallas Stars

Pittsburgh Penguins Acquire Matt Dumba From Dallas Stars

Read More