This year’s NHL Draft brought several engaging stories. Gavin McKenna joined the Toronto Maple Leafs, Caleb Malhotra was picked by the Vancouver Canucks, a team his father played for, and Jaxon Cover from the Cayman Islands, who began playing ice hockey only five years ago, was chosen 32nd by Ottawa.

Among the standout selections was Alexander Karmanov from Moldova. At 7’1″, he became the tallest player ever drafted in the NHL, surpassing the height of Zdeno Chara by three inches. This distinction went to the San Jose Sharks, who chose him in the seventh round after his season with the OHL’s North Bay Battalion. Karmanov is expected to join Penn State’s college hockey program in 2027, known for its rising status.

However, questions linger about Karmanov’s readiness for the NHL. The Sharks’ development camp offered a glimpse of his potential challenges. Primarily, his skating ability is a concern, a common issue for players of his stature. Despite this, he showcased his effectiveness during the Sharks’ prospect game. Though not fast or graceful, his skating was impactful.

On the ice, his towering presence is impossible to miss. Once he starts moving across the ice, opponents find it difficult to stop him. With his vast reach and ability to protect the puck with his body, opponents often struggle to regain control, showcasing how his size could be a massive advantage.

While his techniques might not be fully effective against seasoned NHL players yet, it’s crucial to remember that Karmanov is still developing. He’s set to continue maturing in the OHL and at Penn State, and it’s likely he will adapt and become a formidable challenge for opponents.