Observations:

October 2014 – Namestnikov had a terrific training camp and impressed Lightning management enough to keep him on Tampa Bay's roster to start the season. Randall Buschmann

February 2014 – Due to an injury to Valterri Filppula, Namestnikov has been recalled by Tampa Bay from Syracuse for the first time in his young career. Randall Buschmann

February 2014 – After missing over a month from a broken hand injury, Namestnikov returned to Syracuse's lineup to find both his regular linemates (Nikita Kucherov and J.T. Brown) playing in Tampa Bay. Since that time, Namestnikov has formed a new top line with Brett Connolly and AHL veteran Jon DiSalvatore. Playing primarily with those two wingers, the talented Russian has produced four goals and nine points in 15 games. Likely the best player on his team on any given night, Namestnikov continues to impress with uncanny hockey sense and playmaking ability. He's currently in a three-way tie for the team lead in points. Due to the Lightning's current depth at center, barring any changes, Namestnikov will likely end up beginning his NHL career as a winger. Randall Buschmann

November 2013 – Namestnikov broke his left hand and is expected to miss four to six weeks of action. Randall Buschmann

November 2013 – Namestnikov is centering Syracuse's top line alongside fellow Russian phenom Nikita Kucherov. The two Russians have developed some impressive chemistry together as they represent two of the top three scorers in the AHL right now. Even though technically, it's Namestnikov's second pro season, remember he missed a large chunk of time last season with an injury which makes his early season success even more noteworthy. Keep an eye on Namestnikov as he could see some time with the Lightning club with the significant leg injury to Steven Stamkos. Randy Buschmann

June 2013 – Namestnikov had a successful playoff run with Syracuse but the team lost in the Calder Cup Final. Namestnikov finished the playoffs with two goals and seven points in 18 games while improving his overall play with the puck. Lightning management are very high on Namestnikov and want him to develop properly, so expect him to play the entire 2013-14 season in the AHL while rounding out his game. Randy Buschmann

March 2013 – Namestnikov's first pro season in the AHL hasn't gone as planned, as the talented two way forward missed a large chunk of time due to an unfortunate shoulder injury. In 28 games, Namestnikov has three goals, 10 points and a -3 rating, on a team which most players are on the plus-side of double digits. It should be noted that Namestnikov has yet to be given a prime opportunity at a scoring line role, which is the result of being a 20 year old rookie on the highest scoring team in the AHL. While nobody is doubting Namestnikov's talent or skill, there isn't much time left in the AHL season to improve on his dismal totals. With more time to develop and experience, expect Namestnikov to eventually become one of the better overall players in the AHL. Randy Buschmann

August 2012 – A solid development camp puts him on the radar for the 2012-13 season, but he is still likely another year away barring a great main training camp in the fall. Dobber

May 2012 – He has continued strong production this season finishing with 71 points and 18 more in OHL playoffs. Played a huge opening game in the Memorial Cup, scored two goals, one being a sweet tip in, the second an odd man rush off a feed from line mate Seth Griffith. Tampa currently has a few forward openings for the next season, he will surely get a look, but may have to spend some time in the AHL. Jason Banks

January 2012 – London Knights’ 20^th overall pick in the 2010 CHL Import Draft was Russian speedster Vladislav Namestnikov and he has proved to be a very good pick.  Last month, Russia made Namestnikov one of the final cuts for their World Junior squad surprising many since the skilled centre with good speed has shown an ability to play a number of roles early on in his career.  Namestnikov projects to be a top six forward at the NHL level but his arrival depends on how quick he can add some strength to his wiry frame.  Vladislav speaks fluent English and has come to North America showing the hockey world that he adjusts quickly on the ice as well.  Namestnikov scored at a point-per-game pace in his first OHL season and has improved that pace in his second season.  The Lightning were likely thrilled with Namestnikov being their 27^th overall pick as he’s got great potential as a future playmaker, scorer and minute muncher at the NHL level. Brendan Ross

Fantasy Outlook: B+

Namestnikov is showing that his potential is in the top six. The Lightning are very deep there, but he's proving his ability enough that they will make room at some point.

Footage:

Pre-Draft Namestnikov Highlight Package

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