When it was announced that the Colorado Avalanche finally traded Ryan O’Reilly and that the return for him would include the young Russian forward Mikhail Grigorenko, I was thrilled. Although many didn’t share this feeling, I couldn’t help but be intrigued by the forward’s tantalizing talent.
Entering his draft year in 2012, Grigorenko was considered one of the highest rated junior prospects. Playing for Patrick Roy and the Quebec Remparts, in his rookie season in the QMJHL Grigorenko led all rookies in points, posting 40 goals and 45 assists in 50 games. Additionally, he was awarded the Mike Bossy Trophy as the most professional prospect of the QMJHL.