Mikhail Zhukov

History

2003-04: Also known as Misha Joukov… Russian-born centre had been playing in Sweden for his father/coach for several years. Finally got his Swedish citizenship straightened out but the red tape complications may have contributed to a poor year.  

2004-05: For reasons which confuse the Oilers, once Joukov got his Swedish citizenship issues settled he returned to Russia to play hockey. A serious injury kept him sidelined for most of the year and basically wiped out his season.

2005-06: Played with AK BArs Kazan.

2006-07: AK Bars Kazan again but scored less than 10 points for the third consecutive RSL season.

2007-08: Saw a very minor increase in productivity in his third season with Kazan.

2006-07: AK Bars Kazan again but scored less than 10 points for the third consecutive RSL season.

 

Talent Analysis

When drafted: “Has excellent tools: great-sized frame, soft hands, terrific shot, and good vision. Has game breaking moves and scoring touch. Skates well for a tall kid and definitely has some jump to his game, but only in the offensive zone; needs to work much harder in the defensive end. Good size but doesn't take advantage of it. Not a physical player and doesn't finish checks, but isn't afraid of traffic or the corners. Strictly one-dimensional, but his scoring upside is an attractive commodity. Very raw and nowhere near the sum of his parts, but has been coming on like gangbusters down the stretch; could really become an offensive force.”

Since they drafted him the Oilers have been baffled by Zhukov’s lack of development and poor choices as to flip-flopping between Russia and Sweden.

 

Future