Talent Analysis

Chudinov is a hard-nosed, puck-moving defenseman. Short but stocky and powerful, he relishes the physical game and uses his low center of gravity to his advantage similar to former NHL’er and fellow Russian Darius Kasparitis. An excellent skater, he has both mobility and speed which he uses well defensively to compensate for his lack of height and wingspan. He has some real offense to his game as well, making smart decisions on the breakout, joining the rush and supporting the attack, and has a knack for slipping coverage and getting open around the tops of circles. He’s been a leader for his KHL team in terms of points and ice time and for his country at the World Juniors where he’s been an assistant captain and put up 9 points over his last 13 games.


Future

Chudinov fell in the draft because of the so-called Russian factor. He’s a product of the Russian system and has been content to develop and remain there, signing a two-year deal immediately after being drafted. But the Bruins seem to understand this and Chiarelli was quoted at the draft as saying he didn’t expect Chudinov to compete for a job in Boston for at least two years. But until he crosses the pond and shows a commitment to playing in North America his rating will be continue to be slightly downgraded. Based on limited viewings and scouting reports, his style seems reminiscent of Detroit’s Niklas Kronwall.