Arseni Radkov, the Belarusian goaltender selected 82nd overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, has been reflecting on the surprise of his high draft position and outlining his plans for the future. Radkov's selection marked the Canadiens' first of two goaltenders chosen in the nine-player draft class of 2025.

Radkov, who played for Tyumenski Legion in the MHL last season, posted a .918 save percentage. The Canadiens used a pick acquired in the Jake Allen trade with the New Jersey Devils to select him.

Radkov himself admitted to being taken aback by the Canadiens' decision to draft him so early. He had anticipated being picked later in the draft. Radkov expressed immense gratitude to the Canadiens for their confidence and trust in him. He also thanked his family and coaches, particularly Artyom Yatskevich, for their unwavering support and guidance throughout his hockey journey.

Standing tall at 6'4" and weighing 194 pounds, Radkov is already a bit of a globetrotter, having played in Finland before joining the Russian junior system. Despite playing on a weaker MHL team, where his team often struggled to provide offensive support, Radkov consistently maintained a save percentage above .900. He faced a heavy workload, including multiple games with over 40 shots against, showcasing his resilience and potential.

Looking ahead, Radkov has a clear vision for his development path. He plans to spend another year at the junior level before transitioning to college hockey for three to four years. Radkov is committed to playing for the University of Massachusetts starting in the 2026-27 season. This commitment assures the Canadiens that he intends to play in North America.

In the short term, Radkov will be joining the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada of the QMJHL for the 2025-26 season. The Armada selected him in the first round, 33rd overall, in the CHL Import Draft. This move to the QMJHL allows the Canadiens to monitor his development more closely. Playing in the QMJHL will also help him prepare for the increased competition he will face in the NCAA.

Radkov is an athletic goalie known for his lateral movement and ability to cover the crease effectively. While he has a solid initial shot-stopping technique, he sometimes needs to refine his rebound control. However, his raw talent and promising underlying skills provide a solid foundation for future development.

Radkov is driven by a desire to improve constantly and push beyond his limits. He thrives under pressure and enjoys the responsibility of being the last line of defense for his team. Like many aspiring hockey players, Radkov dreams of playing in the NHL and representing his country in international tournaments. He is prepared to work diligently to achieve his goals.