Dmitri Samorukov

March 2020 – Samorukov’s first season in the AHL has been a relatively quiet one and as expected, a year of adjustments. His defensive game has translated well to the pro level and his offensive game is a work in progress. To date, the young Russian has recorded two goals and nine points in 44 games for the Condors this season. His low production could be attributed to playing behind Caleb Jones, Evan Bouchard, William Lagesson and Logan Day on the offensive depth chart for the first part of the year. When Caleb Jones was recalled, Samorukov found himself behind Evan Bouchard, Joel Persson and Logan Day. Joel Persson was recently traded to the Anaheim Ducks at the NHL trade deadline which means that Samorukov should receive more minutes and more consistent power play until William Lagesson is reassigned. Samorukov’s offensive upside is not likely as high as some of Edmonton’s other young defenders but he does have some upside in that regard that he has not tapped into at the pro level yet. Edmonton may have to be patient with Samorukov which should not be a problem with all the young emerging defensemen that they have had this season. Jameson Ewasiuk

March 2019 – Samorukov’s slow start to the season (six points in the first 23 games) seems like a thing of the past since he has exploded offensively since the end of November. In his last 34 games, the young defender has recorded an impressive 37 points and his 43 total points on the season place him 16th in the league. He was also an assistant captain for Russia at the World Junior Championship where he recorded four points in seven games. The young Russian won’t turn 20 until June and will be looking to make an impact on the Bakersfield Condors of the AHL next season. The Condors’ blue line could be crowded next season since Evan Bouchard, Joel Persson and Samorukov could all find themselves on the squad as AHL rookies. Jameson Ewasiuk

December 2018 – After recording just six points in the first 23 games of the season, Samorukov has really come on offensively in the last six game tallying nine points. His recent production is impressive but may not last as he isn’t known for his offensive abilities. Don’t be surprised if he finds a happy medium between his slow start and his hot streak. Samorukov was invited to the Russian World Junior camp and should have a good shot at making the team having played on it last year. Jameson Ewasiuk

July 2018 – Dmitri Samorukov is a two-way defender with an improving offensive game. He has been praised by Guelph Storm coach/GM George Burnett for his strong skating, his ability to play in all situations (including the powerplay) and his overall determination. The young defender has just completed his second season in the OHL and recorded 11 goals and 34 points in 62 games played. His numbers from last season saw improvement compared to his rookie campaign with the Storm. He also recorded one assist in five games at the WJC, and two assists in five games for the Bakersfield Condors. Samorukov has a solid overall skill set and if he can continue to develop his offensive game then he could potentially become a fantasy player to watch in the future. Jameson Ewasiuk