Viktor Neuchev is a goal-scoring winger who is able to contribute on the scoresheet due to a high-end shot and smooth puck skills. The standout element in his game is his shot, as he owns a quick and deceptive release that allows him to get the puck on goal in a hurry. He can shoot off both feet with power and accuracy, and his puck skills and hand-eye coordination allow him to catch and release the puck off a pass effortlessly. He rarely passes up an opportunity to shoot the puck, too. He is very creative in one-on-one situations with the puck on his stick, able to pull off flashy dekes to beat opposing defensemen and find lanes to the net. He can handle the puck in tight and around his feet, allowing him to score in tight spaces while also being able to snipe from medium-to-long range. He has a light frame for his height, but often displays good control and strength on his skates while protecting the puck against opposing defenders. Where he needs to improve in order to make it as a pro forward is in his defensive awareness and his engagement away from the puck. His mind is constantly on offense, and in turn he’s guilty of flying his defensive zone too early in order to attempt to create quick strike opportunities – at times making life difficult on his defensemen both in terms of puck retrieval and controlled breakouts. He’s not involved in his own zone or in assisting his teammates near frequently enough in this regard. He will need to improve his defensive commitment as well as fill out his frame in order to crack the NHL. Both will be key elements, but the good certainly outweighs the questionable. Neuchev has the skill and scoring punch to play in the middle-six of a forward group with power play upside.

– FCHockey’s 2022 NHL Draft Guide