Danil Sysoyev (C, L, 6’0″, 171, Stalnye Lisy Magnitogorsk, 12/09/2007) Danil Sysoyev is a 6’0′, 171-pound left-shot center playing a major offensive role for Stalnye Lisy Magnitogorsk in the MHL. He is one of the primary drivers of his team’s offense. His 41 points in 53 games, tied for the team lead while second in both goals and assists, shows consistent production and offensive involvement. Sysoyev averages 17:29 of ice time per game with significant usage on both the power play (2:36) and penalty kill (1:34), clearly having trust from his coaching staff in both offensive and defensive situations. He is leaned on to generate offense while still taking regular defensive-zone face-offs. He is an intelligent quick processing center who understands how to create and finish opportunities. Sysoyev generates 2.9 shot attempts per game and produces 1.56 Grade ‘A’ scoring chances per game, converting at an efficient 18% rate by subtle changes in opening and closing the face of his stick blade to get both the defenders and goalies leaning. His 89% pass completion rate and nearly one pre-shot pass per game (0.92) show he is not just finishing plays but actively generating offense and driving puck movement through the neutral zone and into the offensive zone. His 54% faceoff success rate and his puck battle success rate of 52% shows he competes effectively for possession despite not yet having a fully developed anywhere close to a pro frame. I feel Sysoyev could become an NHL draft pick is that he demonstrates the offensive instincts, puck distribution ability, and the positional awareness teams look for in a potential middle-six center. His ability to produce offense while being counted on in defensive situations and special teams roles show strong hockey sense and line-up versatility, and the fact that he is relied upon heavily by his coaching staff indicates he plays a responsible two-way game. However, there are also areas that raise questions about his NHL projection. At 171 pounds he is still has serious work to do in the weight room and I do not like how often he takes unnecessary hits; at the NHL this will simply lead to injuries. In my opinion, Sysoyev is a legitimate NHL draft candidate because of his offensive production, playmaking ability, and positional versatility as a center or wing who can contribute on both special teams and from all five face-off dots. If he adds strength, which will lead to improved puck protection and puck management, he has the skill set to develop into a middle-six NHL forward (possibly a center) who can contribute offensively while playing responsibly in all situations. If his physical development and puck management do not progress as competition increases, he is more likely to become a productive professional player in the KHL.