Ivan Khomutov

I dunno, I just find that this guy is flying largely under the radar this season. He has shown the most progression out of any Rats player from last year to this year, imo. He plays hard, has good puck handling and offensive skills, is 6'3" 205lbs, and is only 20 years old. His point totals aren't fantastic, averaging .54 ppg, but he is of course on the Rats. No one except Suggy has a terrific ppg. He has already eclipsed his point total from 04-05 in 35 games this season. I duno, I just find this guy to be a very good sleeper prospect. I think he will surprise a lot of people.

What is the opinion of the other Rats fans on this board? I hope I am not just senile, or something, and just seeing things. :amazed:

I'm going to have to agree with you on that. If Khomutov played with some better playmaking forwards, he could be causing some serious damage. He has the speed and skills to make an impact in the NHL, but still needs more polish in the AHL. Unfortunately he doesn't get the support he needs on the Rats, which may hinder his development.

And since we're talking about the Rats, where is Nittel anyway? What injury does he have that's sidelined him most of the season?

I'm going to have to agree with you on that. If Khomutov played with some better playmaking forwards, he could be causing some serious damage. He has the speed and skills to make an impact in the NHL, but still needs more polish in the AHL. Unfortunately he doesn't get the support he needs on the Rats, which may hinder his development.

And since we're talking about the Rats, where is Nittel anyway? What injury does he have that's sidelined him most of the season?
I have allways been a massive Khomutov supporter and think the sky is the limit with him. He is big, a strong skater and has an NHL wrister. I mentioned him in a Petr Vrana thread.

He is a prospect that hasn't been talked about much this year, and I think he is flying a little under the radar too. The best thing about him is that he is young and there is absolutely no reason to rush him at all. With more "name" propsects at center like Zajac and Vrana, Khomutov doesn't get mentioned a whole lot. I too think that he could be a great sleeper prospect because the Devils can just leave him in Albany and let him develop until he is completely ready for the NHL game. He's defintely one to keep an eye on over the next couple of seasons.....

What people don't understand is Zajac is only 2 monthes younger then Khomutov. Zajac is playing college while Khomutov is over .5 PPG in the AHL with no help.