Future Watch: Nikita Zaitsev Hockey Rookie Cards, LeafsFuture Watch: Nikita Zaitsev Hockey Rookie Cards, Leafs – Nikita Zaitsev is a very talented Russian defenseman who currently plays for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Now 25, he thought it was a good time to become a rookie in the NHL.

After spending the last seven seasons in the KHL the Maple Leafs took a calculated risk when they signed him. After a strong performance in the previous World Championships that may have sealed the deal. He played in Calgary on a North American sheet of ice.

Earlier this season he played for Team Russia in the World Cup of Hockey. That tournament took place in Toronto so his future hometown fans got a sneak peek up close. He performed well getting two points in four games. The fans had a lot to be excited about.

At 6′-2″, 194 pounds he is a terrific puck moving rearguard who has the skill to set up a scoring chance every time he touches the puck. In the first 16 games of his NHL career he tallied seven helpers. He does possess a terrific point shot so at some time nobody will be surprised if he starts to get some goals as he gets more comfortable in his new surroundings.

Nikita Zaitsev’s only fully licensed NHL card to date is his Young Guns rookie in 2016-17 Upper Deck Series I Hockey. However, there’s little doubt he’ll hit a lot more checklists in future releases.

The release calendar currently lists these upcoming products:

Here’s a look at his KHL highlight reel:

So far Zaitsev’s transition has been seamless thanks to his all-world coach, Mike Babcock. He hasn’t taken it easy on him but he’s making sure he’s playing him in the right situations.

Zaitsev was undrafted, he’s now signed to a one-year contract and he’s playing fearless hockey. He’s not worried about making mistakes but rather looking to make an impact. He’s logging a lot of ice time and now Leaf fans can sit back and watch him get better and better.

Russ Cohen

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