The Florida Panthers selected Russian left winger Grigori Denisenko in the first round (15th overall) of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft in Dallas.
Denisenko spent last season with Loko Yaroslavl of the MHL, a junior league in Russia. In 31 games, the 5’ 10” forward scored 9 goals and 13 assists. In 12 postseason games he produced 5 goals and seven points as Loko won the league championship.
The 17-year-old also played for 4 scoreless KHL postseason games with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl.
Denisenko, who turns 18 on June 24, is extremely talented and very dangerous when the puck on his stick. However, there are some concerns with his consistency and all-around game. That said, his raw talent and high ceiling make him worthy of being a mid-first round pick.
Are you happy with the pick?
| Yes, good pick | 79 |
| No, a different forward | 11 |
| Should have went defense | 37 |