Photo credit: Habsfanstics/NHL
Alexander Zharovsky is currently riding a very strong stretch since being selected by Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens.
The 18-year-old forward was recently named KHL Rookie of the Month for the second straight month, despite limited offensive production.
He collected only four points in nine games during the month of November but has an impressive 22 points in 25 games this season.
Several teams wanted to draft Alexander Zharovsky before the Montreal Canadiens, including the New York Islanders
According to Malakhov, the Islanders were planning to select Zharovsky with their 42nd-overall pick at the last NHL Draft.
The Canadiens were quicker at 34th overall, and Mathieu Darche had no choice but to select another player, Daniil Prokhorov.
However, Malakhov added that this wasn’t a consolation pick, the organization is very happy with Prokhorov.
Still, the production of the two players in the same league is quite different.
Prokhorov has only one point, an assist, this season with Dynamo Moscow.
Based on how he is playing, it would not be surprising if he makes the jump to North America as early as this year, similar to what Ivan Demidov did last season, even though the forward still has a contract with Ufa through the end of the 2026-27 season.
According to many, selecting Zharovsky could turn out to be a steal.
He could undoubtedly be the Lane Hutson of 2025.
To whet your appetite, here are a few highlights from his season:
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics