Reading the Tea Leafs: Mikhail Stefanovich

Following on the success of two other dormant series Chemmy and I have decided that in order to fill the gap in NHL news that we'll take a look at each of the current Leafs, possible Leafs on the Marlies, and prospects. We'll recap their performance last year, what we can expect from them, and how they can win our hearts (hint: signing the contract was a good first step...unless your name is Bryan McCabe Ian White). We have no idea how long of a series this will end up being or how consistent it will be but with two of us expect it to only be half as half-assed and twice as timely. 

There appears to be no video of Mikhail Stefanovich on the entire internet.

Age (as of October 1, 2008)
19 - November 27th, 1989

QMJHL Seasons
Uno.

Run of the Mill Biographical Information

QMJHL Stats

Former Leaf he'd have to play like in order to be christened a deity
Frank Mahovlich.

Biggest Question Marks
Stefanovich's pre-draft profile:

From TSN: One of the true wild cards in this draft. The Belarussian teased scouts with a 32-goal performance in his rookie QMJHL season but so much was expected from the big pivot who is maddeningly inconsistent with a work ethic that is spotty at best. When he's on, he's capable of dominating but he seems to be off more than on for most scouts. He has first-round talent but an application and execution level that is nowhere near where it needs to be.

He was expected to go around 38th in the draft, and winded up going 98th to Toronto. Perhaps 29 other teams passed over Stefanovich because they know something we don't, or perhaps the Silver Fox really stole something late in this draft.

2007-2008 Summary

Won the Mike Bossy Trophy in the QMJHL, awarded to the league's "best professional prospect". Past winners of that trophy have included:

• Crosby, Fleury, Hemsky, Vermette
• Lecavalier, Luongo, Biron
• Mario Lemieux, Pat Lafontaine, Sylvain Turgeon

But have unfortunately also included:

• Eric Fichaud
• Alexandre Daigle

Projected 2008-2009 role/team
Stefanovich will play next year for Patrick Roy's Quebec Remparts. He had a great rookie season despite people questioning his work ethic, hopefully he blossoms into something amazing,