Top 5 European NHL prospects who could take the league by storm in 2024 ft. Matvei Michkov

In the 2024 NHL draft, three of the top 10 players were from Europe, as were 10 of the top 32. Europe is producing more and more top talent that have taken the NHL by storm and heading into the 2024 NHL season, there are plenty of European prospects to watch out for.

Top 5 European NHL prospects who could take the league by storm in 2024

#1. Matvei Michkov, Philadelphia Flyers

Matvie Michkov was selected seventh overall in the 2023 NHL draft but was considered to be the second-best player in the draft behind Connor Bedard.

However, Michkov fell as there was some worry the Russian wouldn't ever come to the NHL. But, he has since signed his NHL contract and will play with the Flyers this season.

Michkov is projected to be a top offensive weapon for the Flyers and can lead them in scoring.

#2. Alexander Nikishin, Carolina Hurricanes

Alexander Nikishin is one of the top prospects in all of the NHL, but it's uncertain if the Carolina Hurricanes prospects will sign and come over to the NHL.

Nikishin was drafted 69th overall in 2020 and has proven himself to be a solid defenseman in the KHL. However, he has yet to sign his NHL contract so whether or not he comes over in 2024 is to be seen.

But, if Nikishin does come over, he would immediately be a top-four defenseman for the Hurricanes and help replace Brady Skjei and Brett Pesce who left in free agency.

#3. Yaroslav Askarov, Nashville Predators

Yaroslav Askarov is the top goalie prospect in the NHL (Imagn)

Yaroslav Askarov from Russia is the top goalie prospect in the NHL but he may not be playing for the Nashville Predators next season.

The Predators signed Juuse Saros to a contract extension this summer, which blocks the path for Askarov who looks ready to be an NHL goalie.

If Nashville decides to trade Askarov, it will get a bounty for him and he can become a legit starting goalie in the NHL

#4. David Jiricek, Columbus Blue Jackets

David Jiricek from Czech Republic was drafted sixth overall in 2022 by the Columbus Blue Jackets but he hasn't had much of a role so far in the NHL.

Jiricek did play 43 games in the NHL last season, but he should have a much bigger role this year. Jiricek can be a two-way defenseman, who can add some much-needed offense for the Blue Jackets.

#5. Ivan Demidov, Montreal Canadiens

Ivan Demidov from Russia was selected fifth overall in the 2024 NHL draft and there is some thought he may come over to the NHL this season.

Demidov is a skilled scorer who can add some much-needed offenses to the Canadiens who could compete for a playoff spot this season.