With the trade deadline approaching, the Carolina Hurricanes have acquired forward prospect Valentin Zykov, along with a draft pick, from Los Angeles in exchange for Kris Versteeg.
The 20-year-old Russian, who was selected 37th overall by the Kings in the 2013 draft, is playing in his first professional season. Zykov has spent the entirety of his rookie campaign in the AHL so far, recording 14 points (7g, 7a) in 43 games with the Ontario Reign.
Prior to turning pro this season, Zykov spent four seasons in the QMJHL, totaling 184 points (84g, 100a) in 162 games with Baie-Comeau and Gatineau. He was also named QMJHL Rookie of the Year in 2012-13.
The Hurricanes currently have two forward slots empty due to the losses of Versteeg and Eric Staal, who was traded to the New York Rangers earlier today. While there could still be more movement before tomorrow’s trade deadline, Carolina will likely have to turn to the Checkers’ roster to fill those holes. Should he be assigned to Charlotte, Zykov could slide right into a Checkers lineup that is looking for a spark as they head down the home stretch of the AHL season.
