#13 Valeri Kamensky
Scouting Report
The Finesse Game
Injuries slowed Kamensky in his first seasons - so much that he changed his uniform number to avoid the jinx -- but the fairly healthy left-winger
finally fulfilled his promise with the Avalanche two seasons ago. He is primarily a one-way forward. A gifted skater with speed and quickness, he is as dangerous
without the puc kas with it because of his sense for open ice. Kamensky is effective in four-on-four situations as he is a top transition player. His passes are flat and on the money,
with just the right velocity. The recipient does not have to slow down but can collect the puck in stride.
Kamensky has quick hands and a good release on his wrist shot. He gets a lot of power play time, and excels at getting open in the left slot; he just rips his one-timer.
The Physical Game
Kamensky generally tries to avoid contact. He will venture into a spot where he might get hit if he believes he can zip out quickly before any damage is inflicted.
Opposing teams generally make a point of hitting Kamensky early to throw him off his game.
The Intangibles
Kamensky finally had the kind of season people had been predictingfor him for five or six years. He belongs in the 80-point range, and should continue to produce.
Trivia note: Kamensky has the distinction of scoring the first goal in Avalanche history.