Kurban Limatov, drafted 67th overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, is eager to demonstrate his capabilities after being recognized as one of Russia's most promising defensemen. In a recent interview, Limatov discussed his initial hockey experiences and his future aspirations with Dynamo Moscow in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
Limatov's hockey journey began at age four, guided by his father at the Northern Star school in Moscow. Initially wanting to play forward, he transitioned to defense at age seven while with CSKA. Looking ahead, Limatov had a busy schedule, foregoing a traditional vacation to prepare for the draft in North America.
Last season in the MHL, Limatov posted 28 points, which he felt could have been better, noting missed opportunities and early-season defensive issues. He debuted in the KHL on March 1 in a 6-3 victory for Dynamo Moscow against Kunlun Red Star, playing two shifts. Limatov stated he had been called up for practices several times and was told he might get a chance with the main team.
Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 200 pounds, Limatov is known for his physical presence and open-ice hits. However, he is also a smooth skater who often plays on his off-right side in Dynamo Moscow's junior club (MHL). Limatov demonstrates aggressiveness on the rush and isn't hesitant to attempt risky stretch passes or make offensive zone pinches.
Despite a relatively quiet MHL debut in 2023-24 with eight points in 30 games, Limatov improved his scoring pace to 0.5 points per game the following season, adding five points and 41 penalty minutes in seven playoff games.
According to Steven Ellis, lead prospect analyst at Daily Faceoff, Limatov is "one of the best skaters playing in Europe right now," utilizing his skating to outmaneuver opponents and escape dangerous situations.
One concern is Limatov's occasional lapses in judgment under pressure and his limited experience against seasoned players in the KHL and VHL. Limatov has only one KHL game and no VHL games. More experience in these leagues during the 2025-26 season will be beneficial for the Hurricanes in assessing Limatov's potential.
The Hurricanes traded a 2025 fourth-round pick and a 2026 third-round pick to move up in the draft and select Limatov. One scout described him as a hard competitor and good skater with size, willing to engage physically. Some teams considered him a potential first-round talent, but concerns about Russian players potentially discouraged some teams.
Other Hurricanes prospects include Gleb Trikozov, a forward who signed a three-year entry-level contract. Trikozov, drafted 60th overall in 2022, is known for his hockey IQ and vision. Alexander Perevalov, drafted in 2022, is another prospect with exceptional puck skills and flair, though consistency has been a challenge for him. Bradly Nadeau, drafted 30th overall in 2023, is a strong offensive player. Jackson Blake, a right-winger drafted in 2021, is known for his playmaking abilities and hockey IQ. Scott Morrow, a defenseman drafted in 2021, has already had a taste of NHL action.
