The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed one of their more interesting prospects, inking Dmitry Ovchinnikov to a three-year entry-level contract. The young forward will immediately join the Toronto Marlies once his work permits are issued.
Ovchinnikov, 19, was a fifth-round pick in 2020, falling all the way to 137th overall despite having already made his KHL debut and starring at the MHL level in 2019-20. The speedy forward has spent the two seasons since bouncing up and down between the KHL and MHL clubs, finding most of his success at the lower level.
Still, the fact that he has already decided to bring his game to North America is a big win for the Maple Leafs. His KHL contract was terminated earlier today despite Sibir still being in the playoff picture, suggesting he’s ready to completely commit to Toronto’s minor league development plan. While there’s still plenty of work to do before he should be considered a top prospect, the steps he’s taken since his draft should be encouraging for Maple Leafs fans.
As Toronto continues to trade away high picks to try and contend at the NHL level, it will be mid-round selections like Ovchinnikov that will need to emerge. With half a season still remaining for the Marlies, he’ll get a chance right away.