Incorporating our “Job Fair” format, what follows is how Mayorov MIGHT answer the questions if I were on one side of the desk and he were on the other.
Standard Cannon Disclaimer: This series will be presented in the form of a mock job interview. The operative word here is mock. We’re presenting these from the perspective of the player, as if they were applying for a job with the Jackets. The players themselves aren’t involved, so don’t contact the team if you disagree with one of their answers
Q) Good Morning Maks. Tell us a little bit about yourself, please.
I was born in Leninogorsk in the Soviet Union, today it’s Russia, on March 26, 1989. Playing in Russia and having some success, NHL scouts started to pay attention to me during the 2006-07 season. From there, Columbus drafted me in the fourth round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. I was the 94th overall pick. I started my North American career in the ’08-’09 season with Syracuse.
Q) What are some intangibles that you could bring to the Blue Jackets?
Even though I shoot left, I can play on the right side as well as on the left wing. I’m only 22 years old and as my body matures, my size, 6’3″ and 213 pounds, and strength keep me on the puck. I am not easily moved from it. I have a sneaky wrist shot and am a very good stickhandler.
Q) What parts of your game do you think you can improve on?
I need to focus on my defensive game. Sometimes I don’t make it back to the defensive zone quickly enough. Other times, I am occupied by waiting away from the play, hoping for a loose puck to start a rush.
Q) Can you tell us about some of your hockey accomplishments?
Although I can’t tell you about any great triumphs yet, I can say that each of my first three North American seasons, I’ve gotten some brief time to play NHL hockey for Columbus. Last season, I improved my point totals with Springfield, something I’ve done for three consecutive seasons. Also, in a late season call up to the Blue Jackets, I scored a game winning shootout goal and followed it up with my first NHL goal.