Tampa Bay Lightning focus on forward position at 2017 NHL Draft

Alexander Volkov, Right Wing

With the 48th overall pick, the Lightning selected an above-average right winger in Alexander Volkov, who has spent his playing career in Russia thus far. Volkov is listed at 6-foot-1, 192 pounds and has quick hands. The 19-year-old Russia native played for SKA-1946 St. Petersburg (junior hockey) last season and recorded 11 points in 16 games, including four points in four playoff games.

Volkov also played for Russia Selects U20 in the Jr. Super Series in 2016-17. According to a report from CBS Sports, “He struggles with consistency on a game-by-game basis and can disappear for long stretches of time. Volkov will remain in Russia for the immediate future.” Lightning director of amateur scouting Al Murray said Volkov could potentially come over to North America,

"“In Lipanov’s case, he’s coming over and going to Barrie and in the case of Volkov, he purposely did not re-sign a contract because he’s interested in trying to work out a contract to come to the American Hockey League next year. So, if you find people that want to come play in the league and show themselves to be good people and motivated, then those are the guys we want but it doesn’t matter where they come from.”"