Matvei Karbainov (G, L, 6’2″, 181, SKA 1946 St. Petersburg, 11/06/2007) Matvei Karbainov is a 6’2′, 181-pound left-catching goaltender who lacks ideal NHL size but compensates with elite athleticism, posture and balance, making him a legitimate draftable prospect despite some projection concerns. In 40 MHL games (3.00 GAA, .944 SV%, .859 SV% on Grade ‘A’ chances), he has produced one of the most efficient save profiles in his peer group, facing a heavy volume of 36 shots per game and maintaining a 92% nightly save percentage, which speaks to both his tracking ability and consistency under pressure. His .944 save percentage is a clear positive indicator of NHL upside, supported by solid expected goal metrics that show he is outperforming the quality of chances faced. He shows composure in net, reads plays quickly, and is able to stay controlled through sequences, limiting unnecessary movement and allowing his positioning to do the work. However, the concerns are tied to projection and translatability; at 6’2′, 181 pounds he is undersized relative to current NHL trends, and his lean frame can lead to issues with incidental contact and controlling rebounds through heavier, more physical net=front screens. While his .859 save percentage on Grade ‘A’ chances is respectable, it is not elite relative to his overall numbers, indicating that some of his success may be tied to defensive structure rather than pure high-danger dominance. His puck play is also average, and he does not yet show the ability to consistently alleviate pressure for his defense by tying pucks up or sending pucks out of play. Overall, Karbainov’s awareness and composure make him a strong candidate to be drafted, and I do believe he has a path to becoming an NHL goaltender, but it will take time; he projects as a longer-term development goaltender whose success will depend on adding strength, improving rebound control, and proving his game can translate against higher levels of speed, traffic, and shot quality. I feel he is quality sixth round option.