Nikita Gromakov (LW, L, 6’1″, 166, MHK Dynamo St. Petersburg, 01/06/2008) Nikita Gromakov is a 6’1′, 166-pound left-shot winger playing for MHK Dynamo St. Petersburg in the MHL. His 2025/26 season production of 27 points in 48 games with a +16 rating. Overall I feel he is a secondary offensive contributor on a competitive roster who can influence play without needing to have the puck on his stick. Gromakov’s a winger who generates offense through steady shot volume and puck movement rather than elite 1-on-1 moves or elite goal scoring ability. He averages four shot attempts per game and he is willing to attack the net to create opportunities rather than playing passively on the perimeter. He is able to get into dangerous ice offensively and is willing to stand at the top of the crease to win battles. He contributes to offensive sequences as both a shooter and a play maker. He shows consistent second effort on loose pucks and will back check to the crease when needed. The reason Gromakov could become an NHL player is that he combines projectable size with legitimate offensive involvement and good puck distribution habits. His ability to generate shots and scoring chances while maintaining efficient puck movement clearly tell me he is a player who understands offensive timing and positioning. However, I do have concerns that limit his projection. At 166 pounds he is still physically underdeveloped relative to professional standards, and he will need to add considerable muscle and mass if he wants an opportunity in North America. His puck management is an issue as he attempts to create offense under pressure without having a clear purpose or plan. His offensive production is not dominant for a forward receiving consistent ice time at the junior level, which raises questions about whether his offensive skill will translate strongly enough against higher levels of competition. In my opinion, Gromakov is a legitimate draftable prospect because of his size, offensive instincts, and ability to generate scoring opportunities, but his NHL projection will depend heavily on physical development and improved puck management. If he adds strength over the next two to four years and his offensive instincts continue to translate as he climbs into stronger leagues, he could develop into an NHL winger who contributes through secondary scoring and momentum changes. If his physical development and puck battle effectiveness do not improve, it is more likely that he becomes a high-risk high reward forward at the professional level outside the NHL.