Nikita Tryamkin not thinking about jump to the NHL

As the focus in Vancouver shifts towards the Canucks’ prospects, one of their best young defencemen appears to have his mind in other places. According to a report from Russian media outlet R-Sport, Nikita Tryamkin is not only looking forward to continuing his career with Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg this season, but is open to committing beyond his current contract.

“Next season, I want to be the top defenceman on my team and gain trust from my coaching staff,” Tryamkin told reporters “As for NHL, I’m not planning on going there right now, I’m not planning so far ahead. If I’m going to get an offer from Avtomobilist during the season, I’ll consider it”

Drafted 66th overall in 2014, Tryamkin is considered by many to be one of Vancouver’s top European prospects. The left-handed defenceman is a whopping 6’7 and possesses one of the heaviest shots in hockey. That said, he hasn’t used it much yet; in 135 KHL games, he’s scored just five goals. With a preseason tournament under his belt, things have started off smoothly.

“My first impressions on working with [head-coach Andrei] Razin are rather positive. We have a great communication with the coaching staff. They’re being quite frank with us and it’s obvious we’re building a good team here. Nobody’s being short to anybody around here”

Tryamkin’s contract with Yekaterinburg expires at the end of April. Upon its completion, Tryamkin would be eligible to sign an entry level deal and play for the Canucks or any of their minor league affiliates.