Aleksei Kolosov (via Getty Images) Philadelphia Flyers prospect forward Nikita Grebenkin endorsed goalie Aleksei Kolosov, describing him as a “professional” and a good guy, even as questions remain regarding Kolosov’s NHL readiness. Although they spent little time together in the AHL, Nikita Grebenkin was impressed by Philadelphia Flyers prospect Aleksei Kolosov, who is still under fire after a disappointing first year in North America.
Nikita Grebenkin approved of goalie Aleksei Kolosov, calling him a ‘professional’
Nikita Grebenkin said he thinks that Aleksei Kolosov is an optimistic person and expressed his joy at knowing him. “Aleksei, a good, positive guy. A professional who knows his stuff,” Nikita Grebenkin told Legalbet.by. “I’m very glad that I met him.” The 23-year-old Aleksei Kolosov was unable to adapt to the tempo and stress of the NHL. In 15 appearances with the Flyers, he was5-9-1 with a 3.59 GAA and a .867 save percentage. His AHL stats weren’t impressive either—5-6-1, 3.11 GAA, and an .884 save percentage—but his show in March offered encouragement.
Flyers Goalie Aleksei Kolosov Won’t Return To the AHL For the Playoffs?!
A few observers have written that Aleksei Kolosov’s improved performances in the AHL are timed to arrive with Nikita Grebenkin. Whether or not that is coincidence or chemistry, the Flyers should pay attention. Contrast that with life at the NHL: even with fellow Russian-speaking teammates such as Matvei Michkov, Ivan Fedotov, and Egor Zamula to support him, Aleksei Kolosov continued to struggle. That’s a reminder that language and cultural comfort by themselves are no guarantee of a smooth transition—experience and confidence must catch up. Nevertheless, Nikita Grebenkin’s endorsement joins a swelling list of players—including Calgary Flames sniper Ilya Nikolayev, who recently criticized Kolosov in a positive way—who believe that Kolosov is a player with high upside and the weapons to make it. For the time being, it seems Aleksei Kolosov is dedicated to pursuing his career with the Flyers, even with rumors of him possibly wanting to go back to Europe if NHL prospects are reduced.Also read: Nikita Grebenkin and his rise to NHL prospectA full season in the AHL—potentially with both Nikita Grebenkin and Fedotov in the fold—could serve as a development year the young netminder desperately needs. The Flyers seem invested in his future, but patience and proper support will be vital if Kolosov is to grow into the goaltender many believe he can become.