Alexander Kadeykin is trying to prove that it is never too late for a draft pick to pan out. An overage prospect in 2014, Kadeykin was selected by the Detroit Red Wings in the seventh round. Now 26, he has decided that it is finally time to make the jump to the NHL. Russian news source Business Online reports that Kadeykin has informed his KHL squad that he intends to sign with the Red Wings.
Kadeykin is a well-traveled KHL veteran, spending the past two seasons with Salavat Yulaev Ufa and previously suiting up for Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, SKA St. Petersburg, and Atlant Mytishchi. Formerly a role player, the 6’5”, 218-lb. center has grown into more of a power forward and scoring threat. He set new career highs across the board this season with 11 goals, 29 points, and a +20 rating in 59 games. Kadeykin also looked primed for a strong postseason with three points in six games before the KHL playoffs were canceled.
Given his size and aggressive style as well as seemingly average offensive abilities, Kadeykin seems likely to slot into a checking role for Detroit. He may also begin his North American career in the AHL and work his way up. However, there should be ample opportunity with the last-place Red Wings for Kadeykin to win a spot.