2021 NHL Draft: Nikita Chibrikov Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MTg1MDUxMTc5ODQ4Mzc3Njg5/03_20210216_ska_spt_smi_2.jpg] BORN Feb. 16, 2003, Moscow, Rus. 2020-21 SKA St. Petersburg POS RW HT 5-10 WT 172 SHOOTS L INTERNATIONAL SCOUTING SERVICES No. 11 There are some concerns about his size, but scouts were impressed that Chibrikov played most of this season against men with SKA St. Petersburg’s teams in both the KHL and the VHL. And that prepared him well for the world under-18s, where he was one of Russia’s go-to players and top scorers. “He’s a highly skilled guy and I really like his complete level,” said one scout. “He’s not the biggest guy, but he’s shifty, he’s creative and he can score. He’s not afraid. He’s played with men all year, basically, and that was the thing that stood out the most.” Among the skilled Russian forwards, Chibrikov might have a little more offensive upside than the higher-rated Fyodor Svechkov, but Chibrikov’s all-around game is not as good. He’s a solid skater in terms of both speed and quickness and has the ability to jump on loose pucks. Although he can be pressed into first-line service, Chibrikov is likely better suited as a middle-six forward at the NHL level. “He’s got a good release and he’s got good instincts,” said another scout. “The fact that at his size he was able to play in the KHL the way he did, he’s a good offensive player.”