Maple Leafs Top Goaltender Prospect Gets Second Chance To Replicate Last Season's Historic Success
Artur Akhtyamov was officially loaned to the VHL's Neftyanik Almetievsk from his KHL club, Ak Bars Kazan.
The move occurred as Kazan is currently full in the goaltending position, and the club couldn't find a way to fit Akhtyamov.
Akhtyamov's Promise
Last season with Neftyanik Almetievsk, Akhtyamov played 39 games and had a 20-12-6 record with a 1.74 GAA and a .943 SV%. This success raised the eyebrows of many Leafs fans, as the VHL is a highly touted league in Russia, similar to the AHL to the NHL.
While it is hard to tell exactly how good Akhtyamov might be, his potential is certainly there. It is unfortunate, however, that he will not be able to show his skills at the highest level in Russia. Until he plays a significant number of KHL games, it will be hard to truly evaluate his promise as a future NHLer.
Rising Star
Even though he hasn't seen much KHL time, Akhtyamov is making a name for himself, making the rankings for top Leafs prospect. Akhtyamov was drafted by the Leafs in 2020 and saw himself being called up to back up in the KHL at just 19 years old.
Despite having to wait, Leaf fans can remain hopeful that they have a potential superstar goalie waiting in the ranks.
As read on Maple Leafs Daily:
Leafs goalie prospect loaned to minor league team to attempt to replicate last season's tremendous success
| POLL | ||
Do you think Akhtyamov will end up with the Leafs before his career is over? | ||
| Yes | 496 | 60.1 % |
| No | 329 | 39.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
