Morozov's Rookie Season: A Turnaround Tale

For the NHL, it's March 19th.

Here's what's happening.

Last summer, many question why 17-year-old Russian center Ilya Morozov skipped juniors

and jumped straight to college hockey at Miami.

University, he quickly proved his worth as the youngest player in the sport until

another teen joined later.

Morozov helps spark a huge turnaround, lifting the Red Hawks from just three wins to 18 in one season

with a mostly new roster, the biggest.

Single-year jump for any Division I men's program this century, outside of COVID years.

He wrapped up with 20 points, including eight goals and 12 assists,

tying for fifth on the team despite tough NCAA competition.

Nine points came in conference play, with standout games against Powerhouse Western Michigan.

A weak power play held him back some, but he still notched three power play goals in one game winner,

amid a long scoring drought.

Coaches and scouts raved about his reliability.

Miami's head coach called him the steadiest player he's ever coached, trusting the team

with top-line minutes in every situation, from penalty kills.

To key face-offs, his two-way game shown through hardback checking, shot blocks and consistent puck battles,

drawing crowds of NHL scouts every nine.

At six feet three and two oh five pounds, Morozov uses his size, reach and strength to win board battles

and protect the puck, even if his.

Skating is an elite.

He led the team with over 300 face-off wins, showing growth against top teams late in the year.

His style echoes pros like Leon Drazito, blending smarts and physicality.

Looking ahead, he's rising fast on 2026 NHL draft boards, projected in the 15-25 range as a versatile second,

or third line center with low risk and high reward.

More scoring consistency could boost him further next season.

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