Vasily Podkolzin was drafted tenth overall in 2019. He is one of Vancouver’s top prospects. Photo from here.

Vasily Podkolzin was drafted tenth overall in 2019 by the Vancouver Canucks. Standing at 6’4 the Russian right winger adds talent and size. Lately his lack of production on the KHL’s St. Petersburg SKA saw his ice time shrink before being demoted the VHL, Russia’s version of the AHL.

Before the demotion Podkolzin had only scored one goal and three assists since the season had resumed following the COVID shutdown. Hardly the stats you’d expect from a blue chip prospect, especially one who is said to be a hard worker, giving it all on every shift.

So what’s been going on with him?

TSN’s Rick Dhaliwal spoke to Roman Rotenberg, General Manager of St. Petersburg.

“We are sending him to VHL to get ready for the National junior team, get in shape, work hard and become a leader.” Rotenberg said. Rotenberg added that he believes Podkolzin has a lot of potential, but he needs to work harder.

It’s also worth noting that Podkolzin is a teenager playing in a league of grown men so it makes sense he’d have a tougher time scoring points. Fatigue also might be playing a factor as prior to COVID Podkolzin was playing up to 25 minutes.

Rotenberg understands that Canadian hockey fans have high expectations, especially in a city like Vancouver. St. Petersburg’s general manager assures Canucks fans that they have nothing to worry about, it’s just a matter of maturing.

Podkolzin will soon be playing for the Russian National Junior team. There is a good chance he will be named captain by head coach Igor Larionov. If his time in the VHL pays off he will look to impress representing his country. Being captain of a national team is a big deal, but the pressure will give Podkolzin a chance to showcase his leadership abilities.

In the meantime, let’s lay off the kid a bit. He’s only 19 and has plenty of time to develop.