The New York Islanders made the first NHL trade in 60 days. The last trade in the NHL saw the Islanders trade away top 4 defenseman Devon Toews to Colorado. General manager Lou Lamoriello has now traded for the rights to Red Wings prospect Dmytro Timashov.
This trade is an absolute win for the Islanders. If Timashov breaks out and solidifies a spot in the top 9, this trade makes Lamoriello look like a hero. But, if Timashov fades away to the AHL forever, no one remembers this trade. Future considerations for a possible up and coming prospect, it seems like a good deal on paper. But, the paper doesn’t matter, the player does. Now, who is Dmytro Timashov?
Scouting Report
When Dmytro Timashov was drafted, he was praised as one of the most exciting players from the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. He was a very agile skater with great mitts for his young age. Elite Prospects called him a dangerous player who could wow audiences in the future.
It’s been 5 years since he was drafted, what happened to all this potential? Timashov now seems a step slower than the competition. And I’m never the guy who uses height against someone, but Timashov is lacking height. This doesn’t mean that he can’t use his height to his advantage though. He just needs to be taught how. Timashov will most likely be a top 9 forward in the NHL who could get some serious ice time on the power play kill.
Production
Despite all the negatives I’ve just pointed out in his game, he still puts up some good numbers. In the AHL, he recorded 48 goals, 69 assists, and 117 points in just 241 games. That means he put up around half a  point per game.
Remember, the AHL isn’t just a league for bums, it’s real competition, and Timashov proved he could contribute. Timashov played in 39 games for the Maple Leafs this season and recorded 4 goals and 5 assists. I believe that with good coaching and a better system, Timashov could break out very soon. Dmytro Timashov will most likely start the year in the AHL and maybe break onto the 3rd line halfway through the season.