Maxim Denezhkin

June 2022 – The speedy, two-way Russian forward produced well in the VHL (Russia’s AHL) and saw his points per game rise from 0.65 two seasons ago, to 0.75 last year. His 36 points in 48 games are solid but unspectacular. There are questions as to how much he has actually improved since 2019 and whether or not he produces enough to be considered an option for the NHL in the future. At this point, Denezhkin is unsigned and it would not be a surprise if the team and player did not come together on a contract. In the event that he is not signed, the Oilers would still hold his rights but he is likely a long-term project regardless. Jameson Ewasiuk

October 2020 – At this point, it is hard to project an NHL future for Denezhkin as he is still very much a project. His 19 goals and 44 points in 52 games in the MHL last year was not much different than the 22 goals and 39 points in 51 games that he produced the season prior in his draft year. This season, the young Russian has produced two assists in three VHL games and was pointless in his one KHL game. As with any prospect, it would be nice to see Denezhkin take an offensive step forward this year. Jameson Ewasiuk

January 2020 – There is not a whole lot known about Denezhkin at this point and getting exposure to this prospect can be tough due to him playing in the MHL. What we do know however is that the young Russian’s numbers are similar to last season with a slight point-per-game regression (from 0.76 to 0.69) as he has recorded 22 points in 32 games to date. He has not seen any time in the KHL this year and has one assist in two VHL games. At this point, it is tough to say whether or not Denezhkin has an NHL future or not. Jameson Ewasiuk

July 2019 – Denezhkin has been ranked anywhere from the mid-’60s to the 2000s from multiple online resources. The fluctuation between rankings is likely due to the lack of exposure to the MHL. Denezhkin has possessed good quickness and although he is not the flashiest player, he displayed solid puck skills. He has been praised for his strong compete level and is known for his work ethic. Last season, Denezhkin led the best junior team in Russia in scoring as he recorded 22 goals and 39 points in 51 games. This season, Denezhkin will join newly drafted Oilers’ goalie prospect Ilya Konovalov on Lokomotiv of the KHL. Like most seventh-round picks, the young Russian is a long shot to be an NHL player but time will tell. Jameson Ewasiuk