Toronto Maple Leafs: Breaking down second-round forward draft targets

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Kirill Slepets, Right Wing, Loko Yaroslavl (MHL)

Another overage winger, Slepets has been passed over in the previous two drafts. Now, the 20-year-old will be hoping to have a team finally call his name.

NHL Central Scouting has the winger ranked 17th among European forwards and most draft pundits have him as a mid-round selection this year.

"“Despite being a relatively small forward, Slepets has the skating ability and elusiveness to be a dangerous player in the offensive zone. He competes extremely hard every shift and can hold his own below the half wall. He possesses a quick release and an accurate shot which makes him a threat from between the circles.” – Devin Slawson, The Hockey Writers"

Slepets did spend some time playing in the KHL this past season with Lokomotiv, however, he spent the bulk of his games with Loko, the organization’s junior team. He put up 12 goals and 18 points in 17 contests. in 10 KHL games, he registered a single goal.

It was at the World Juniors in December where Slepets was able to showcase his ability for the world. On a Russian squad that went undefeated until the semifinal, he had five goals and seven points in as many games. Russia went on to win the bronze medal.

Slepets also played for his country in the Canada-Russia Series this past year. He posted a pair of assists in six games against the CHL’s best.

Next season, the winger should be playing in the KHL with Lokomotiv. He could opt to spend more than the next year at home, or he could be set to make the move to North America following the end of his contract with Yaroslavl.

Let us know of any prospects you’d like to see the Maple Leafs take with their second-rounder in the comments below!