Capitals select Ilya Samsonov with 22nd overall pick

Tap here to view theScore's NHL draft tracker, which includes the 2015 draft results, the latest transactions, and rumors.

The Washington Capitals selected Ilya Samsonov with the 22nd pick in the 2015 NHL Draft.

2014-15 Stats

Overview

Considered by many the best goaltender available at the draft, Ilya Samsonov has been favorably compared to Russian standouts like Sergei Bobrovsky and promising young Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy.

Samsonov compares well with Vasilevskiy in terms of size. He's very aggressive in his positioning, cutting off shooting angles and daring opponents to make tough passes. While this might make trouble for less mobile large netminders, Samsonov is surprisingly agile and can regain his positioning quickly, often leading to remarkable saves.

The combination of size, talent, confidence, and competitiveness Samsonov brings to the rink will be a great fit for the NHL, but he's under contract in the KHL for at least two more seasons. He should blossom into a solid option in net once he makes the journey to North America.

What the scouts are saying

"He has good size and covers the net well. He plays at the top of the crease and effectively squares to the shooter. He shows good instincts, is well balanced and can make acrobatic saves." - NHL Director of European Scouting Goran Stubb

"Combines essential elements of size and athletic ability to be imposing in the net and make scoring difficult. He is very aware and reads the play well and is quick to close down the net. An ultra-competitor who never gives up on a play. With normal technical refinement, he can become a star." - TSN's Craig Button

Highlight