With every season comes the hype around the player that is blessed, or cursed, with the label of the “Next Big Thing”. The can’t miss prospect usually has just started shaving, probably doesn’t have a drivers license and probably needs to put on about 15-20 pounds before they can legitimately compete in the NHL.

Nail Yakupov, the Edmonton Oilers third consecutive top overall pick fits that mold to a tee. At 5’10” and 175-lbs, Yakupov relies on speed and quickness to dart out of harm’s way. The bigger faster players of the NHL could make life more difficult for Yakupov, who will surely enjoy growing pains similar to those of his predecessors.

The hyped Russian winger is currently lighting lamps in his homeland of mother Russia, staying focused on improving his game and impressing scouts and players for Neftekhimik of the KHL. Yakupov leads Neftekhimik with 10 goals in only 13 games played only three off the league lead. Despite playing nine fewer games than his teammates, he has impressed teammates and opponents alike.
A few scouts were quick to point out the similarities between the 19-year old Yakupov and his future Oiler teammate and current Oklahoma City Baron Taylor Hall.

Aside from the obvious left-handed shot, both have explosive speed, dynamic quickness and aren’t afraid of the physical game. Where Hall was often reckless, throwing his body into anything, Yakupov seems to be more calculated, knowing his limitations and size.

Yakupov seems to get back on both ends of the ice as well, though don’t look for any Selke Trophies. The offensive end is where Yakupov really excels. As his abbreviated KHL numbers suggest, the kid has a cannon shot with a lightning-quick release. The nickname “Russian Rocket” has already been spoken for, but Yakupov might make a case for a similar handle once he starts blowing up the NHL nets.