Oilers prospect sits on the bench for three straight games

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Liam McCormick
September 22, 2024 (5:13 PM)

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Oilers prospect Nikita Yevseyev is having a real tough time this season with the KHL's Kazan AK Bars after being benched the last three games.

According to Oilers prospect expert Bruce Curlock, today marked the third time that Yevseyev was dressed and sat on the bench, but recorded 0 seconds of actual ice time. Yevseyev has skated in 4 games, but has routinely had less than 3 minutes of ice time. Even in games where they've dressed 8 defenceman, Yevseyev is still benched all game.

This is a nightmare situation for any hockey player, let alone a young player who's been drafted to the NHL and is trying to develop their game. If this concerning trend continues, the Oilers may have to step in and find a solution to get Yevseyev to North America and save his development. Oilers fans are already asking reporters to ask the front office what the plan is to help him.

Unfortunately, this is just the way the KHL has been known to treat younger players - especially those who have been drafted to the NHL.

The Edmonton Oilers selected the 6'1 left shot defenceman Yevseyev in the sixth round of the 2022 Draft, after some very promising seasons in Russia's minor leagues. The Oilers amateur scouts have had great success recently drafting defenceman in the late rounds, and some still have some hope for Yevseyev if he can actually start playing some games. Hopefully, the Edmonton Oilers are able to pull some strings with overseas connections to get this kid playing again. He really needs it!

Source for Yevseyev Stats: PuckPedia - Nikita Yevseyev