Drafting and prospecting are always gambles. NHL teams and executives have trust in their scouts to provide the most accurate information on up-and-coming prospects. Teams look for players that fit into their roster in the future. But we do have to remember that every player is different, and they may or may not ultimately end up playing in the NHL.
Alexander Khokhlachev
Khokhlachev was a former second-round pick of the Bruins back in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Coming out of the draft, many people saw the Russian prospect as a top-six forward, with elite, gifted offensive abilities.
The Moscow native wowed fans with his elite talent both in junior and in the AHL. In his final junior season, Khokhlachev scored 48 points in just 29 games with the Windsor Spitfires. Khokhlachev then continued his development in Providence (AHL). In his first pro season, he scored an impressive 57 points in 65 games.
Khokhlachev gained popularity among hockey fans and was described as a sly, creative forward who can both finish and make plays.
Unfortunately, Khokhlachev was never able to produce at the NHL level. He had just played nine total games in the NHL without recording a point. Following his brief stint in the NHL, he signed a contract with the KHL.
As of today, Khokhlachev has been out of the NHL for some significant time, although he has been producing at the KHL level. Last season, he scored 30 points in 46 games for Moscow Spartak.
Prospecting and drafting are always risks. Teams and executives in the NHL rely on their scouts to give them the most precise information possible about promising young players. Teams search for athletes who will eventually fit onto their team. However, we must keep in mind that each player is unique and that they may or may not ultimately play in the NHL.