Player's Profile
- Name: Kirill Starkov
- Position: C
- Shoots: Left
- Height: 6-0
- Weight: 188 lbs
- Birthdate: 1987-03-31
- Eligible for Draft: 2005
- Drafted:
- Hometown: Yekaterinburg, Russia
- Acquired: 189th overall, 2005 Entry Draft, by Columbus
- Playing In: Pro
Kirill Starkov
Prospect Grade: 7.0 D (About Prospect Grades)
History
Starkov had a very good season with Frölunda in 2004-05 where he was among the best scorers.
2006-07: European import Kirill Starkov turned in a dazzling debut in his first year of North American competition. After spending most of this past year atop the rookie scoring leader board and eventually finishing second in goals scored by a freshman in the circuit with 34, Starkov should likely be locked into a contract by Columbus before the clock runs out on the Jackets opportunity to sign the newly-naturalized Danish citizen.
Long considered a potential steal as a virtual unknown when the Jackets reached for him with a sixth-round selection in the 2005 draft, Starkov’s transition across the ocean as a teenager was eased by his role this past season on a line with top-tier Phoenix prospect and fellow Euro phenom Martin Hanzal. Starkov’s impressive point totals as a rookie (34 goals and 37 assists in 71 games) were eclipsed by Hanzal, as each player fed off the other and adjusted to the culture of North American hockey while pushing Red Deer into an improbable run at a title. With the elimination of the Rebels at the hands of the powerful Medicine Hat squad (quarterbacked, coincidentally, by fellow Jacket prospect Russell), Starkov returned to Denmark, a country he has called home since moving out of Russia at the age of four.
Talent Analysis
Great skater who has quick feet and a very good top speed… his feet are constantly moving and he creates a lot with his speed… is a solid stick handler who can beat a defenseman one-on-one situations… has very good hockey sense and is deceptive with the puck… sees the ice well and anticipates the play well… is patient and creative with the puck… has good attitude and has improved work ethic… shows more fire when on the ice… is a good forchecker… has to be more physical and aggressive… defensive play has to improve… size is questionable.
Future
It is difficult at this point to ascertain the ceiling of Kirill Starkov’s skills. While his impressive point totals from his rookie campaign in the tough WHL suggest that the best is yet to come, the obvious playmaking abilities of linemate Hanzal naturally temper that assessment. While another year in the WHL would appear to be of benefit in his adjustment to the North American game, his expressed dissatisfaction with the controlled environment in the Canadian juniors (which stands in sharp contrast to his European career) is an indication that he will be exploring his options this offseason. Looking for an opportunity to showcase his talent for the big club, Starkov has shown interest in signing a contract with Columbus and earning an audition in training camp come September.
Stats
Stats Coming Soon...
Profile Last Updated: April, 10th 2008
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