Edmonton Oilers could sign a rising star in their prospect pool

Drafted in the 5th round of the 2020 NHL Draft, Berezkin's size and skills have made him one of Edmonton's most intriguing prospects.

Playing for Yaroslavl Lokomotiv, Berezkin has demonstrated that he is a powerful blend of physicality and offensive power.

Through 51 games this season, the 23-year-old has scored 13 goals and 35 points and it's ranking him second in team scoring which is a notable feat in the KHL.

Bruce Curlock said that Berezkin's ability to use his size to dominate in front of the net makes him so good that he could easily reproduce this play style in the NHL, a bit like Zach Hyman is doing now.

His net-front presence and hockey IQ make him a natural fit for Edmonton's lineup, especially in a bottom-six role that demands both grit and scoring depth.

Despite his ceiling, there are obstacles to Berezkin joining the Oilerssince like many KHL players, he will become a free agent when his contract ends and it will be leaving some uncertainty about his willingness to move to North America.

According to Daniel Nugent-Bowman of The Athletic, Berezkin will be eligible to sign on May 31, but even if he does, he would have to clear waivers to join the team mid-season and it's making an immediate debut unlikely.

If Edmonton can secure Berezkin's contract, they could add an NHL-ready forward who can contribute as early as next season and can make a big difference in the Edmonton Oilers lineup.