Future Watch: Valentin Zykov Rookie Hockey Cards, Hurricanes – Valentin Zykov was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings with the 37th overall pick in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. In February of 2016 the Hurricanes acquired the talented Russian and a pick for aging veteran, Kris Versteeg.
In his three years in the QMJHL with Baie-Comeau and Gatineau he had an amazing 184 points in 162 games with 84 goals. Some will dismiss those numbers and that only fueled him further.
In 2015, Zykov had a disappointing World Junior Championship. He didn’t get a point in seven games, but he did go home with a bronze medal. That next season he turned pro and played for two different AHL squads, based on the trade, in his rookie season.
In 2016-17, he did play a full season in Charlotte. He had 16 goals and 34 points in 66 games. In March of 2017 he made his NHL debut and he did score a goal in two games. That lit the fuse.
In 2017-18 he primarily played in Charlotte. He had a breakout year with 32 goals and 52 points in 61 games. That earned him another recall with the Hurricanes. In 10 games he had three goals and seven points. His analytics were solid and many thinks this was his breakthrough season.
Here’s a look at his first goal in his first NHL game:
He will be 23 next season and the talented winger could have a breakout year. You’ve now learned about him before that happens, so you can react accordingly. Canes fans are excited about him and he could be a big part of their “new direction” that the club will take next season.
Future Watch: Valentin Zykov Rookie Hockey Cards, Hurricanes – More Resources
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