Observations:

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May 2013 – Valentenko played all of the 2012-13 season in the KHL. His NHL rights remain with the New York Rangers but at this point a future in the NHL is very unlikely. Eric Daoust

May 2012 – Pavel has recently signed a two year KHL contract with Avengard Omsk. Unless he has an NHL out clause, and low depth team comes calling, this effectively ends his North American career at the age of 24. Rangers recently recalled six players including Dylan McIlrath and Tim Erixon for their playoff run after Connecticut was eliminated. Pavel was likely told he would not be needed. Pavel is an RFA and rights will likely also be declined due to Rangers defensive depth.  Jason Banks

April 2012 – Valentenko aka ‘The Russian Tank’, plays much bigger and stronger than his size. One look at this guy and you will instantly love what he brings. He is a very defensively responsible, stay at home rearguard. Pavel is likely the best open ice hitting D at the AHL level. Because of the rigorous way he plays, Pavel has been susceptible to impact injuries from hits and shot blocking and general ‘tank-like’ play. He also possesses a very heavy point shot that ranges high 90s. He has an odd knack for scoring timely goals, as four of his five on the season have been game winners. Pavel is a threat to return to ‘Mother Russia’ at any time. He left Montreal three years ago because he did not feel he fit into their plans, was traded to New York, where he was convinced to come back after two years in the KHL. He really needs to make the team out of camp next season, which will be tough as NYR have great depth at D, either signed for next season or have RFA status.

Fantasy Outlook:  D+

Not a strong fantasy candidate for production if he makes the NHL, but solid plus/minus, shot blocking and hit potential if these stats are counted in your league.

Footage:

Using his huge point shot, on his first AHL goal

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Pavel Valentenko statistics courtesy of Elite Prospects