Robin Kovacs
Position: Wing
Current Team: AIK, Allsvenskan
Date of Birth: November 16, 1996
Place of Birth: Stockholm, Sweden
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 168 lbs
Shoots: Left
A smallish, speedy winger with a sneaky-good shot, Robin Kovacs had a cup of coffee last season (three games) in the SHL before spending all of this season in the second-tier Allsvenskan for his AIK club. He more than held his own, being nominated for the “Guldgallret” as the junior league’s best player. He likes to play a physical game, though until he gets bigger and stronger he won’t be able to impact a game on that end at the next level. He has a good head for the game, but it also prone to the occasional mental mistake. He can play in all three phases of the game and isn’t afraid to go anywhere on the ice with the skating and agility to back that up. However, he lacks polish and consistency as well as strength to go with his feisty attitude at this point.
Scouting Reports
A speedy winger that likes to agitate opponents and then strike quickly. Possesses great stick-handling ability and creativity, and is potent on the power play and penalty kill, as he recognizes scoring chances and is quick to act. Loves to play a puck-possession game and can pick his spot like no other when ripping his shots. All-in-all, an all-around winger that players hate to play against due to his skill level and the effectiveness of his agitation. – Curtis Joe, Elite Prospects
A dangerous winger in flight, Robin Kovacs has the ability to sneak past D and affect the game’s momentum in an instant with a booming shot. With decent size, Kovacs plays with a chippiness and is eager to throw his weight around, though he isn’t an intimidating type. His skating is exceptional for quick bursts and he shows strength in turns with his long legs. Though he does have immense offensive potential, Kovacs needs to improve his consistency in many facets. His skating while initially has a quick punch, can appear to drop off in speed and acceleration when tired. He was prone to airhead type moments where he either made an errant pass, sloppy handle, or plain skated himself out of an opportunity. He is at his best when he is skating hard and keeping it simple with the puck. With all the promise in the world, Kovacs needs to show his older age and start to produce as expected this season. – Anthony Mauro, DraftBuzz Hockey
A skilled forward who has a strong understanding of the game…very fast on his feet and quick agility make him dangerous both in the offensive zone and in defensive situations…impressive offensive instincts…creative and quick hands with the puck… has a great shot that can turn into a goalie’s nightmare…sees the ice well and makes some impressive passes…likes the puck on his stick and will go to the net…skating and instincts make him a dangerous penalty killer…can be hot-tempered and takes undisciplined penalties…willing to talk and get under his opponent’s skin, but is not overly physical or strong. – Future Considerations
A Good Fit in Columbus?
At the moment, I’d say no. The Jackets have plenty of wingers with the grinder’s mentality, and those guys have all shown a bit more scoring consistency than Kovacs. He has room to improve as he matures and gets stronger physically, but he would immediately be behind at least five or six other forward prospects in the Jackets’ system. Considering he’s be a second-round option, there will probably be better options on the board if the Jackets elect to look for a winger.