If you include the 2024 Young Stars Classic, the Vancouver Canucks’ prospects have been showcasing themselves for nearly a week in Penticton, BC. However, over the last two days, that environment has included a wide range of talent, from their peer group to NHL stars.
As a young player at camp, it’s easy to blend in with the group and never really catch the eyes of the coaching staff or management group. As such, this makes it even more of an impressive feat to have a youngster’s name called out specifically by the Canucks’ head coach after just two days.
On Friday, two young defencemen, Kirill Kudryavtsev and Sawyer Mynio, achieved just that. When asked which “non-NHL” players had caught his eye, Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet singled out both defenders.
First was Kirill Kudryavtsev, whom Tocchet referred to as “The young defenceman. The Russian, Kirill.”
“I actually don’t mind watching him out there,” Tocchet said. “I think he’s going to push that Abbotsford defence.”
At 20 years old, Kudryavtsev is vying for one of the final spots on the Abbotsford Canucks roster this season. With three years of junior hockey experience with the Soo Greyhounds, his game appears ready for that next challenge. While questions still linger about whether his physicality meets professional standards, his overall two-way play suggests he’s well-prepared for the jump.
Kudryavtsev participated in all three games at this year’s Young Stars Classic, showcasing his versatility by playing on his offhand throughout the tournament. His comfort and effectiveness in that role, coupled with his strong defensive reads and vision, may give him an edge as he competes for a spot on Abbotsford’s crowded left side.
Following Kudryavtsev’s mention, Tocchet offered a glowing review of 19-year-old Sawyer Mynio.
“He’s a good player,” Tocchet remarked. “He’s got a lot of potential. I’m watching him go against JT Miller one-on-one—that’s tough—but I’ve liked his game, you know? And he’s got a lot of things you’re looking for.”
Mynio, a 2023 third-round pick, is coming off a breakout season with the Seattle Thunderbirds in the Western Hockey League, where he increased his point total from 31 to 53 year-over-year. While this year will see him return to the T-Birds for a fourth year, there is a very real possibility of him turning pro by season’s end.
Mynio participated in two of the three Young Stars games over the weekend, sitting out game one as he recovered from the flu. As a result, he wasn’t at his usual aggressive best. When playing to his potential, however, he’s an aggressive two-way defender who threads the line well, giving offenders space before shutting them down with swift skating and aggressive nature.
As the Canucks’ training camp continues, both Kudryavtsev and Mynio will be players to watch closely.
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