Hockey’s Future: What were your thoughts about being drafted by such a classic team like Chicago?
Mikhail Yakubov: I was just happy to be selected, it really didn’t matter which team.
HF: Many Russians stay at home in Russia and play before trying to crack an NHL roster, why did you come over to North America?
MY: I signed with Chicago and they sent me to Red Deer, they felt I would get more playing time.
HF: How so enjoy playing in Red Deer?
MY: It’s been a lot of fun, the team is good and I get to play a lot. The long road trips are tough though.
HF: Being that this is your first season in North America, how has the lifestyle adjustment affected you?
MY: It’s been a very easy transition. The lifestyle in Canada is a little different than Russia but not that much.
HF: What do you feel the strongest/weakest parts of your game are?
MY: I’m not really sure. I’m always trying to improve both offensively and defensively.
HF: The Blackhawks never even interviewed you prior yo the Draft because they didn’t think you would be there at Number 10, were you surprised they selected you?
MY: I didn’t try to guess who would take me. I just figured I would go in the first round and that’s what happened.
HF: You had the honor of playing in two World Junior Championships, what was that like?
MY: It was fun, but I didn’t get a lot of ice time.
HF: Who taught you the most about hockey?
MY: Certainly my dad and my first coach.
HF: Who has helped make your first year in North America a smooth transition?
MY: I live with one of my teammates, Doug Lynch, and he has really helped my adjustment. I’m still learning the language but it’s getting easier.
Fact Sheet
Name: Mikhail Yakubov
Birthplace: Barnaul, Russia
Current Residence: Red Deer, Alberta
Idol Growing Up: Sergei Fedorov
Most Memorable Hockey Moment: Being Drafted By Chicago
