A Closer Look: Fedor Tyutin

Player: Fedor Tyutin
Birthplace: Izhevsk, Russia
Birthdate: July 19th, 1983 (age 25)
Height/Weight: 6'3" / 216lbs
Position: D
Number: 51
2007-08 Season Stats:
New York Rangers: 82 GP / 5 G / 15 A / 20 PTS / 43 PIM

Where he fits in the line-up: When Nikolai Zherdev was traded it was expected that Fedor would be a solid top four minute eater. He has been. He is relied upon to play in all situations of the game. For the most of the year Fedor has been paired with either Mark Methot or the oft-injured Rostislav Klesla. While the toughest assignments are drawn by Commodore and Hejda, Tyutin his partner routinely play against the teamâ•˙s next best players.

Why you need to watch out for Tyutin: He is a soft and steady player. At only 25 his best years are ahead of him. He is already signed for three more seasons at a below market value rate. From the point he is the best defender at getting his shot through traffic and this has led to a career high in goals. For most of the year he has kept his lethal hipcheck quiet, he certainly has the ability to deliver a game changing check.

Scouting Report: After a terrible first few games, Tyutin has been arguably our best all-around defensemen. He is a tough guy who does not take shift or games off. At only 25, he has untapped offensive potential and reminds me of an upgraded Jaroslav Spacek. He makes subtle slight movements that allow him to move the puck up the ice stick to stick when many other defenders try to rim it out. He is certainly a top four fixture for the near future and may become a top pair defensemen with some further polish.

The Cannon's stats prediction:
80 GP / 10 G / 30 A / 40 PTS / 80 PIM