Daniil Kuzmin (D, L, 6’3″, 201, Loko Yaroslavl MHL, 01/22/2007)
Daniil Kuzmin is a physically mature, left-shot defenseman playing in Russia’s top junior league (MHL) for Loko-76 Yaroslavl. He brings NHL-prototype size at 6’3”, 200 lbs and blends it with developing puck-moving ability and steady defensive habits. In 24 games this season, Kuzmin recorded 6 points (4 goals, 2 assists) with 14 penalty minutes and a -6 rating, while averaging 16:20 TOI, including 1:26 on the power play and 1:41 on the penalty kill.
Kuzmin’s game is grounded in simple, direct play. He moves well for a player his size and consistently breaks up plays through off puck awareness and an active stick. He generated 3.4 shot attempts per game and landed 1.52 on net, while also getting 1.48 blocked — indicating a willingness to shoot, though with room for improved efficiency and shot selection. Defensively, he was strong in puck battles (56% win rate), blocked nearly a shot per game (0.96), and limited errors (3.1 giveaways/game on 87% pass accuracy). While not dynamic, he registered a solid 1.38 pre-shot passes per game, suggesting he has some offensive awareness in the attacking zone.
Why Kuzmin Should Be Drafted
1) NHL-Ready Size with Defensive Poise
At 6’3”, 200 lbs, Kuzmin already fits the physical profile of an NHL defenseman. He uses his length and reach effectively to kill plays, maintain inside positioning, and close gaps efficiently without relying on over-physicality.
2) Two-Way Foundation with Special Teams Value
Kuzmin plays in all situations, showing trust from his coaching staff. He averaged over 3 minutes combined on special teams per game and was deployed with both defensive and offensive zone face-offs. His shot selection and play-reading ability allow him to contribute as a second-unit PP option and responsible PK presence.
3) Low-Risk, Efficient Decision Maker
With an 87% pass completion rate and just 3.1 giveaways per game despite high defensive zone time, Kuzmin demonstrates responsible puck management. He consistently moves pucks under control, makes the first pass, and doesn’t overhandle under pressure.
4) Strong Defensive Detail and Battle Engagement
Kuzmin won 56% of puck battles and blocked nearly a shot per game — both strong indicators of a defense-first mindset. His 60% scoring chance conversion rate (4 goals on 6.7 chances generated) is quietly impressive and speaks to his opportunistic nature.
Why Kuzmin May Not Be Drafted
1) Limited Offensive Creativity and Pacing
While Kuzmin is capable in the offensive zone, he is not a natural puck mover or high-tempo play driver. His 1.38 pre-shot passes per game are solid, but he lacks deception, dynamic feet, or elite decision-making speed to project to top-four minutes at the NHL level.
2) Skating Still Needs Refinement
For his size, Kuzmin moves adequately, but his first three step explosiveness and lateral agility remain areas of concern. He doesn’t always close on faster forwards in transition and may struggle with gap control at the National League level without continued development in footwork.
3) Minimal Physical Presence Despite Frame
Despite his size, Kuzmin averaged just 0.7 hits per game. He plays more positionally than physically and doesn’t consistently impose himself in board battles or net-front situations — a missed opportunity given his frame.
4) Average Defensive Impact at Even Strength
His -6 rating offset his 7 takeaways per game — room to improve his defensive zone coverage and defensive zone puck support. He limits his mistakes but can be overwhelmed under sustained pressure or when forced into reactive coverage.
Projection & Recommendation
Projection: Bottom-pair NHL defenseman with penalty kill and puck-moving depth upside
Development Track: 2 more seasons in the MHL/KHL system with a focus on improving foot speed and physical play, and gaining confidence in offensive touches. Followed by 2 seasons in the AHL playing as a structured, minutes-eating defenseman.
Draft Range: 6th–7th Round
Verdict: Kuzmin offers a low-risk, structurally sound profile built on size, defensive reliability, and controlled puck movement. While his ceiling may be limited to a third-pair role, his physical traits, puck discipline, and special teams versatility make him a worthy late-round target for organizations looking to develop dependable, pro-style defenders with size and maturity.