How Ilya Nabokov Could Be The Avalanches Future Franchise Goalie

The Colorado Avalanche did not hold a 1st round pick in the 2024 draft yet still managed to make a sneaky selection with a player that could pay dividends for years to come. By selecting goaltender Ilya Nabokov 38th overall in the 2nd round, the Avalanche may have secured a cornerstone for their franchises future in the crease. Here’s why Nabokov is a shrewd pick and how he could develop into a long term starter that Colorado has been in search for.

Scouting Report: Who is Ilya Nabokov?

Ilya Nabokov, a young goaltender hailing from Russia, has been on the radar of scouts for his standout performances in the Russian leagues. Standing at 6’1 and possessing a swift glove hand, Nabokov combines poise and agility, making him a formidable presence between the pipes. His statistics from the past season in the KHL are impressive: in the regular season Nabokov had a save percentage of .930 and a goals against average of 2.15. In the playoffs, Nabokov put up .942 save percentage and a goals against average of 1.82, leading his club Magnitogorsk Metallurg to the KHL title. Nabokov took home the trophy for the leagues most outstanding rookie, along with becoming the youngest player ever to win the KHL playoff MVP.

Why the Avalanche Pick is Sneaky

1. Draft Position and Value: Nabokov was selected early in the 2nd round, making him a high value pick. The Avs scouting department clearly saw potential and jumped at the first opportunity they had, demonstrating their willingness to invest in a position that can often make or break a franchise.
2. Depth and Development: With the Avs already possessing goaltending depth, Nabokov won’t be rushed into the NHL. He’ll have the opportunity to develop at his own pace, likely continuing his growth in the KHL before making the jump to the AHL. This approach reduces the risk associated with young goaltenders being exposed too early and allows Nabokov to refine his skills in a lower pressure environment.
3. Potential for Growth: Nabokov’s physical tools are complemented by his strong work ethic and coachability. The Avs development staff is well-regarded for their ability to nurture talent recently, and Nabokov stands to benefit greatly from their expertise. His ability to learn and adapt will be critical as he transitions to the North American style of play.

How Nabokov Fits into the Avalanche’s Long-Term Plans

1. Succession Planning: The Avs general manager Chris MacFarland selection of Nabokov is a clear investment into the franchises success for years to come. Current Avs goaltenders are solid enough to win now, but planning for the future is essential. Nabokov represents a long term investment if developed properly, and could take over the starting role as soon as he is ready.
2. Cap Flexibility: Young goaltenders on entry level contracts provide significant cap flexibility. If Nabokov can step into a starting role within a few years, the Avalanche could allocate financial resources to other areas, such as bolstering their defense or adding firepower to their forward lines.
3. Playoff Performance: Goaltending is often the main factor in the playoff success. Nabokov has shown composure and a skill set to make him an ideal candidate to be a difference maker in crucial games. His ability to perform under pressure could turn the Avalanche into perennial contenders while he is at the helm.

Final Thoughts

The selection of Ilya Nabokov by the Colorado Avalanche might not have garnered any headlines, but it’s a move that could pay off significantly in the long run. Nabokov has all the tools to develop into an elite NHL goaltender, and with the Avs support and development system, he has a clear path to becoming a long term starter for the franchise. As he progresses through the ranks, keep an eye on Nabokov, his journey could be one of the most exciting stories to watch in the coming years.