LW/RW;Yegor Korshkov, 23, 6’4, 214 – AHL (GP; 23, G; 8, A; 7, PTS; 15)
Yegor Korshkov started off the season ablaze, putting up a point per game pace. As the season has worn on, Korshkov has seemed to fade a little bit.
The Toronto Marlies recognized there was a lack of Russian speaking players in the organization, thus hiring former Leaf legend Nik Antropov, to be Korshkov’s “mentor.”
The language barrier has definitely been a factor in Korshkov’s on-ice communication with his teammates too. It’s hard to try and get your teammate to cover their man, when they don’t speak the same language as you.
Yegor has excellent size and utilizes it effectively with his skill. Having special teams abilities will take Korshkov a long way in his future with the Leafs, as it opens up his doors in the NHL lineup. His versatility certainly helps a lot too, in terms of roster and lineup flexibility.
What is clear, Yegor plays like a Zach Hyman/ Tomas Holmstrom type. He likes to be a big presence on the cycle and around the net. Posting 15 points in 23 games, it looks as if Korshkov has made the right choice coming over from Russia.
Luckily for Korshkov, he is a versatile winger, who plays on both special teams. He has an active motor and a long reach, which is a nuisance to play against. He is a Keefe style player, so his chances of reaching the NHL remain very strong, as long as he keeps up his production.
ETA; 2020-21- Next year looks to be a decent bet for Korshkov to crack the Leafs lineup after another impending crap crunch.
Potential; Versatile forward who can play up and down the lineup. Has special teams abilities, which help his case to make the NHL as well. Size and cycle ability is what will help his case for a roster spot.