Ostap Safin Signs Entry-Level Contract With Edmonton Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers continue to lock up prospects, this time signing Ostap Safin to a three-year entry-level contract. Safin is currently playing in the QMJHL with the Saint John Sea Dogs, but could see some time on an amateur tryout with the Bakersfield Condors before the end of the year.

Safin, selected in the fourth round of the 2017 draft, came over to North America after growing up in the Czech Republic and has found immediate success in the CHL. With 53 points in 56 games, he has excellent potential as a power forward for the Oilers, one who can skate exceptionally well for a player of his size. Now listed at 6’5″ 191-lbs, Safin protects the puck well in the offensive zone and tries to create chances for teammates.

While he may not project as a top line player in the NHL, Safin has already shown more than expected from his fourth-round draft status. His size, speed and deceptive offensive talent has transferred well to Saint John where he leads the team in points, and will soon be tested at the professional level. Since he was drafted out of Europe, he could potentially go to the AHL next season despite being only 19 years old. Otherwise, a return to Saint John could bring about huge offensive numbers as one of the more advanced players in the QMJHL.