Alan Shaikhlislamov – 2026 NHL Draft Prospect Profile – The Hockey Writers – NHL Entry Draft

Alan Shaikhlislamov

2025-26 Team: Tolpar Ufa (MHL)
Date of Birth: Sept. 04, 2008
Place of Birth: Izhevsk, Russia
Ht: 6-foot-1 Wt: 187 pounds
Shoots: Left
Position: Right Wing
NHL Draft Eligibility: 2026 first-year eligible

Rankings

Alan Shaikhlislamov is a fast offensive winger gifted with a good shot and a strong motor. While not overly gifted, he is a hard worker and has some physical tools as he can deliver a good hit while being mostly a player for the offensive zone.

The forward had a strong season in the Russian Junior League with Tolpar Ufa, collecting 35 points with 18 goals and 17 assists in just 31 regular-season games. He did miss some time early in the season due to an injury, but his strong production in the juniors, he earned a callup to the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), dressing for his debut game with Salavat Yulaev Ufa. However, he ended the game with minus-3 in a 5-2 loss to Avangard Omsk and never returned.

It looks like next year, Shaikhlislamov will have another chance in the KHL, but also in the Russian second-tier league with Toros Neftekhamsk, Salavat Yulaev’s affiliated. He’s expected to grow as a player and gain some more maturity in his game, as this season he often looked like a forward who needs to use his teammates more, involve them more in the offensive zone, and share more the puck, even if he’s often the best shooter in his line.

Shaikhlislamov’s top weapon is his shot. He has a strong wrister and a fast release, and he does know when to unleash it around the net. He doesn’t have the flashy stickhandling that many Russian prospects exhibit, nor the fastest feet, but he has some potential in his offensive game. He also loves a nice hit, even if it’s not the strongest part of his game.

Alan Shaikhlislamov – NHL Draft Projection

Shaikhlislamov has lacked exposure, not only on the international scene like other Russian players. He also only played one game at the men’s level, so it’s not a surprise he is unranked in many pre-draft lists. However, his offensive game, size, and skills will get his name called in the second day.

Being chosen around the fifth or the sixth round is a realistic expectation for Shaikhlislamov. He has good foundations but needs some seasoning and more games against pro opposition to have a real chance to grow up in his career, something that will come before crossing the pond.

Quotables

“Shaikhlislamov has a powerful base and stride but needs to move his feet more consistently. Alan is a straight line player, who is often receiving passes for shooting opportunities. His shot is heavy off the stick and his release is quick. Shaikhlislamov has a willingness to get to the net and has good touch around it. His hands aren’t smooth but they’re effective.” – Zak Egan, Dobber Prospects

“Shaikhlislamov is an efficient skater who is engaged and comfortable in his movements. He shows good balance on his skates and is not easily knocked off position, even after solid contact. This allows him to absorb hits and maintain his speed while moving with or without the puck. His first steps are strong and he likes to use this to create separation from opponents while sustaining a steady pace throughout his shifts.” – TSLH

Strengths

• A strong shot and a good nose around the net
• Owns a great motor and good stamina
• Can deliver a big hit without losing positioning

Under Construction/Improvements to Make

• Must improve his shot selection
• Needs to work more with his linemates

NHL Potential

Shaikhlislamov, at this point, is a long-term project without sure-fire NHL potential. However, if he can adapt to a more demanding environment, grow as a player, and improve on his reading of the game, he could carve out a bottom-six role with some scoring potential due to his good shot.

Risk- Reward Analysis

Risk: 2/5 Reward: 3/5

Fantasy Hockey Potential

Offense: 6/10 Defense: 4/10

Alan Shaikhlislamov Stats

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