The Colorado Avalanche have an impressive rookie in Nikita , who they should call up in the near future.
The Colorado Avalanche seem to want to see their different young Eagles players in their lineup upon their injuries this season. Nikita Prishchepov had a chance in 10 games early in the year. He was close to scoring a few times if I’m not mistaken, and I think that he would have a chance of recording his first NHL goal if he keeps on working hard and doing what the team asks of him.
Of course, the NHL is a different beast than the AHL, where Prishchepov is at right now, and I’m not suggesting he play 40 games for the Avalanche. It wouldn’t upset me if he played for the Avalanche for a few games, then get sent down again. I’d personally expect him to become a regular call-up.
Why? Because of his size. Sure, he can build up to be a bigger player, but if you’ve seen how he’s played with the Avalanche, you’d understand his style and abilities. Prishchepov wouldn’t be asked to produce a high number of goals, especially immediately. However, his fight for the puck and his passing abilities would help the team.
He’s basically in on the puck every opportunity he gets. It’s one thing that I noticed immediately when he entered the lineup.
I also believe that he deserves a shot at the fourth-line centre spot. Of course, he wouldn’t unseat veterans but he’d be a nice addition to the fourth line, replacing Ivan Ivan. The Avs could technically move Ivan to one of the fourth line wing spots, too.
Prishchepov is coming off of a hat trick night with the Eagles.
The NHL’s holiday roster freeze is coming up, so I wouldn’t necessarily expect Prishchepov to be called up before then. However, his impact with the Eagles should warrant a call-up sometime in January. Maybe that decision won’t be made immediately upon the New Year, but I would not be surprised if it happens sometime in the next month. Do the right thing, Avalanche.
