Vitaly Kravtsov Prospect Report

Position: Right Wing - Shoots Left

Born December 23rd, 1999 in Vladivostok, Russia

Height: 6’3 Weight: 189 lbs (190 cm, 86 kg)

   

Vitali Kravtsov is the New York Rangers 9th overall pick in the 2018 Draft, and with that draft spot comes a lot of potential and pressure to live up to the expectations of the scouts. In his first season with Traktor in the KHL he had 21 points in 50 games. When he got brought up to the Hartford Wolf Pack in the AHL, Kravtsov produced 15 points in 39 games. Despite the low total of points in both leagues, Kravtsov has a very high ceiling, and he has proven it before. He displayed a bit of attitude problems when being demoted for a short time, but Kravtsov afterwards put his head down and began to work. In the final contests of the shortened AHL season is when Kravtsov produced the most, and his tremendous upside began to shine through.

Offensive Ability: Kravtsov is a dangerous playmaking forward with a quick shot. He is quick and joins in the rush very well but sometimes holds onto the puck for too long. He has very good stickhandling ability, and combine that with his high hockey IQ, and Kravtsov is a good playmaker. He knows where to put the puck exactly for his teammates to receive it nicely, and when he doesn’t have the puck, he is always trying to find open ice for a reception. Overall a quick, playmaking forward that isn’t afraid to join the rush. 

Grade: B+

Defensive Ability: Kravtsov is very quick, and his willingness to join the rush doesn’t prevent him from getting back in time for defense. His quick hands can generate turnovers, and his knowledge of defense allows him to position himself in passing lanes to cut off the other team’s options. His big frame is ideal for a hitter, but he neglects to use it. He typically avoids hitting the opposition in favor of a more stick powered defense. Overall, a 2-way winger, he needs to use his body more, though. 

Grade: B-

Projection: If Kravtsov blossoms into his full potential, he can easily be in the top 2 lines. With his newfound work ethic, he can definitely work on the more physical side of hockey and be more of a two-way forward. There is no doubt that he will eventually play for the Rangers, the question is whether it is next season or the one after. 

By: Connor Hipp