Kudryavtsev, who plays for the Soo Greyhounds was drafted 208th by the Canucks in 2022.
Kirill Kudryavtsev continues to be praised for his strong 2023-24 campaign. In the annual coaches poll released by the OHL, Kudryavtsev was named the most underrated player in the Western Conference. Last year, the Soo Greyhounds defender finished tied for third in the Western Conference, finishing behind Jacob Maillet and Braeden Bowman.
This is the second time in the last week that Kudryavtsev has been acknowledge for his strong campaign. The Vancouver Canucks prospect was also named the Greyhounds nominee for the Red Tilson Trophy, which is awarded to the OHL's Most Outstanding Player. Only one Canucks drafted player has won the Red Tilson Trophy, that being Cody Hodgson, who took home the award in 2009.
It is clear that Vancouver has plans for Kudryavtsev, as he signed an entry-level contract last March. Listed at 6", 200 pounds, the left-shot defender has 136 points in 202 regular season games at the OHL level. While nothing has been finalized, he is projected to make the jump to the pro level next season and join the Abbotsford Canucks for their 2024-25 campaign.
Kudryavtsev has started his 2024 postseason strong, recording a goal and three assists in two games. His play has also been a significant factor in Soo taking a 3-0 series lead over the Guelph Storm. One of the favourites to take home this year's J. Ross Robertson Cup, the Greyhounds will look to complete the series sweep on Wednesday and secure their spot in the second round of the OHL Playoffs.
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