Observations:

March 2014 – It seems as though Sens fans have seen the last of Nikita Filatov for now. Sens GM Bryan Murray risked a third round pick in 2013 for the enigmatic left-winger. Through 35 games playing for Salavat Yulayev of the KHL this year Filatov has 13 goals and seven assists and is a minus-3.  It’s difficult to write-off Filatov as a prospect; he’s only 23 years old and certainly shows glimpses of offensive promise. If the Moscow-native can add some size and work on his defensive-awareness he could get a crack at an NHL lineup in a few years if he decides to return to the NHL. Nathan Martin

July 2012 – Nikita Filatov, once one of the most promising prospects in the game, recently signed a two-year deal with Salavat Yulaev of the KHL. The Senators qualified Filatov this summer, so his rights are still held by the club. Filatov remains a promising prospect due to his goal scoring ability and above average skating ability and speed; however, he has not been able to translate his skill to the NHL due to a myriad of factors, including issues regarding his work ethic and hockey sense. Filatov was able to produce in Binghamton of the AHL last year, scoring 7 goals and adding 5 assists in 15 games, but he could not hold a roster spot in the NHL and subsequently asked to be loaned to CSKA Moscow of the KHL.

Fantasy Outlook: B-

Filatov has the skill to play and produce in the NHL, however his attitude, work ethic, and mental fitness have prevented him from sticking thus far. It will be at least two years before Filatov could potentially return to the NHL. Keep an eye on him to see how he produces in the KHL over the next two seasons.

Footage:

Filatov scores a hat trick in his first game with the Binghamton Senators:

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Fantasy Prospects Report Notes (Any FPR’s released in the last 18 months will not be listed here):

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Nikita Filatov’s statistics courtesy of Elite Prospects