With the 20th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, the Columbus Blue Jackets selected goaltender Pyotr Andreyanov from Krasnaya Armiya Moskva of the MHL (Russian Junior League). This pick was a surprise to some, as Andreyanov's name wasn't consistently featured in the top of many draft rankings. He was the first Russian player and the first goaltender selected in the draft.
Andreyanov, an 18-year-old from Volsk, Russia, posted a 23-6-6 record with a 1.75 goals-against average, a .942 save percentage, and three shutouts in 37 games for Krasnaya Armiya Moskva in the MHL this past season. In six playoff games, he was 2-4-0 with a .929 save percentage and a 2.36 GAA. He catches with his left hand.
Scouting Report Standing at 6'2" and weighing 207 pounds, Andreyanov is considered an athletic and technically sound goaltender. He has impressed scouts with his quick reflexes, strong footwork, and ability to read the play. Neutral Zone describes him as having the size, composure, and raw talent that NHL scouts seek in a potential starting goaltender. Elite Prospects notes his strong footwork, explosiveness, and ability to take away time and space from shooters.
Strengths: * Athleticism and Quickness: Andreyanov is known for his agility and quick lateral movements, allowing him to track the puck effectively. * Puck Tracking: He demonstrates an ability to locate the puck quickly, even through traffic. * Positional Play and Aggressiveness: Andreyanov is confident challenging shooters and plays beyond the top of his crease. * Rebound Control: He manages rebounds well, often sweeping the puck away with his stick or freezing it quickly.
Weaknesses: * Consistency: He needs to work on consistency and avoid overdoing it when the puck gets close to the crease. * Adventurous Style: Andreyanov can be too adventurous with his stick, which can sometimes backfire. * Identifying Passing Options: He needs to improve his ability to identify open passing options to anticipate cross-ice passes.
Quotes
How He Fits with the Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets were happy to add Andreyanov, considering him the best goalie prospect they've seen in the draft in years. They believe he has big potential for the future. While he is viewed as a long-term project, the Blue Jackets used one of their two first-round picks to add him to their pipeline.
Other Considerations Andreyanov's stock may have been affected by Russia's inability to compete internationally. Some scouts believe his height could also be a factor. He has minimal experience outside of junior hockey and needs to play against stronger competition.
Overall, Pyotr Andreyanov is considered a high-potential goaltending prospect with the athleticism and technical skills to develop into a starting NHL goalie.
