Six-foot-six rookie Daniil Prokhorov is poised to spend his first season in North America with the New York Islanders' AHL affiliate in Hamilton, Ontario. While considered too raw for the NHL currently, Prokhorov's size and developing skills have drawn attention from team prospects and coaches.
Prokhorov, a 2025 second-round draft pick, showcased his offensive capabilities by scoring twice in a recent prospect game against the New Jersey Devils, which the Islanders' prospects won 5-4. Cole Eiserman, a fellow prospect, described Prokhorov as "super funny" and "very passionate on the ice," adding that he is "like a big teddy bear" off the ice but a "grizzly bear on the ice."
At 6-foot-6 and 234 pounds, Prokhorov's potential hinges on how he can leverage his significant size. Among NHL forwards who are over 6-foot-6 and played 50 or more games last season, players like Tage Thompson and Aliaksei Protas have demonstrated considerable scoring ability. Prokhorov's ceiling is considered intriguing if his development is managed effectively.
During the prospect game, Prokhorov demonstrated his ability to get to the net for his goals and skated well. While there were instances where smaller opponents outmaneuvered him along the boards, the overall impression was positive. "He's like a locomotive. It's hard to stop him. He gets to the net," said Gleb Veremyev, Prokhorov's linemate and fellow Russian speaker, highlighting the forward's driving ability.
This attribute is seen as valuable for the Islanders, who have reportedly lacked such a presence, particularly after the departure of Anders Lee in free agency. Veremyev also noted that Prokhorov is still adjusting to the North American style of play and is "still young" and "growing into" his large frame.
Hamilton coach Jay McKee, who has overseen development camp, expressed impressment with Prokhorov's mobility for his size. Prokhorov spent his summer training with strength coach Ben Prentiss' group, alongside several NHL players.
"Love playing with him," Eiserman added. "He loves the game. You can tell he's a goal scorer. He's gonna play for a long time."
Other prospects, Quinn Finley and Isaiah George, did not participate in the scrimmage. Finley, wearing a noncontact jersey due to a shoulder injury, may or may not play in an upcoming game. George was rested but is expected to participate in the next contest. "These kinds of games, he doesn't necessarily have to play, but I think it's good to get his timing," McKee said of George.