Meet Thrashers Prospects: Kirill Safronov

Safronov was originally selected by Phoenix in the first round, 19th overall, in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. In the pre-draft rankings he was ranked sixth among European prospects by Central Scouting. At the trading deadline of 2002, he was traded to the Atlanta Thrashers along with forward Ruslan Zainullin in exchange for forward Darcy Hordichuk and a 5th round draft choice in 2002.

Safronov is a physical, two way defenseman who can play in any game situation. He is a guy a coach wants out there for a critical faceoff late in a game. He likes to keep his game simple so he cuts down on mental mistakes. He is a smooth skater with good speed and acceleration, and sees the ice very well. He can move the puck well on the power play also. He has the ability to be a top three defenseman in the NHL.

Safronov has had two solid seasons in the American Hockey League amassing 8 goals and 34 assists and a +5 in 141 games. He was called up to play in a couple of games for the Thrashers late in the season and was pointless with a -3. However, do not let that fool you. You have to remember, he was called up when the Thrashers were going through a really bad time defensively. He did not play bad. He was actually one of the bright spots for the teams future on the blue line.

Safronov has been one of the Chicago Wolves best defenseman in the playoffs for the American Hockey League. He has 2 goals and 8 assists and has a +7 rating in 24 games during the playoffs. He ranks second on the team in scoring among defensemen and ninth overall.