Alexander Romanov and the Canadiens Blueline

(Photo by Rich Lam/Getty Images)

By: Clare McManus 

Is Alexander Romanov on his way to Montreal? Romanov was in the midst of his last year with the CSKA Moskva of the KHL, before the season ended due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, and it sounds like he will not resign with the team. He played two full seasons in Russia, totaling one goal and 10 assists for 11 points in 86 games. The young blueliner averaged around 12:53 minutes of ice time this year with CSKA. Even though this is lower-line minutes, for a young player in the KHL, it’s not all that bad. Especially because CSKA is a stacked team and one of the best in the KHL. Romanov has been giving his chances and has shown he can be used in must needed situations. So the biggest question is, can he save the Montreal Canadiens blueline?

The Canadiens have had consistency struggles on their defense for quite some time now. The top four have shown consistency, but their bottom pairings are having some trouble. They need a guy who can bring offensive skills to the table, as well as a shutdown presence to the bottom pairings. That’s exactly the kind of player Alexander Romanov is and a player the Canadiens need. 

Romanov is usually always well positioned on the ice. On defense he does well getting in the way of passing lanes and blocking shots. He also does a great job at pushing opponents to the outside and knocking them off the puck, no matter the size of the player. On offense he usually stays positioned on the blueline. He will pinch from time to time and will get a good shot on goal, or just simply keep the puck in the zone. He’s got a strong shot as well as decent hands, and makes strong passes on the transition play up ice. Romanov also has a high hockey IQ. He knows where the puck is at all times, as well as his teammates, leading to smart plays. Romanov also has outstanding skating abilities. He has fantastic edge work and agility, and gains speed quickly with his strong strides. 

In all, if Romanov can transition his play to the NHL, he will 100% be a game changer for the Canadiens. I wouldn’t be surprised if his name was on the list for the Calder Memorial Trophy for the 2020-21 season. Everything about his game I really like. He brings an offensive presence while also being capable of playing a shutdown role. What’s not to like? 

Check out some of the skills he brings to the table: 

Skating/Hands:

Like I mentioned before. He is a great skater with amazing edge work and agility. Displays it here perfectly. Also making a great breakout pass. 

Again. His skating is outstanding, but he also is displaying good puck control. 

Shot: 

Here Romanov displays his strong shot off the pinch in.

Defensive Zone Positioning:

Here Romanov is perfectly positioned in the slot area and breaks up the play.

Hockey IQ:

He notices the attacker coming on him fast and decides to fling the puck the opposite way.