Drafted in the 5th round of the 2022 NHL entry draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs, Nikita Grebyonkin, who is 6 foot 2 inches and weighs 195 pounds, is not typically recognized for physicality in the KHL. However, in a recent match, he challenged Roman Rukavishnikov to a vigorous fight, delivering several powerful hits that sent Rukavishnikov to the ice.
Grebyonkin's display of toughness in these videos is a promising sign for the Leafs, indicating they might have a prospect capable of showing grit when needed while also excelling in skill-based gameplay.