The NY Islanders could consider the OHL's leading point producer Nikita Klepov with pick No. 13

The way this NY Islanders team is currently constructed, they're incredibly deep down the middle. With Bo Horvat, Mat Barzal, Brayden Schenn, JG Pageau, and Casey Cizikas, they have options depending on the situation, who to use, and where.

Where this team is lacking is on the wings. Kyle Palmieri missed the majority of the season, leaving a gaping hole. Barzal played most of the season on the wing, filling the gap, but the team is still missing a playmaker and goal-scorer type. Victor Eklund and Cole Eiserman are pushing for positions on the opening night roster, but depth is still needed, and a player like Nikita Klepov of the Saginaw Spirit could be an option at pick No. 13 of the 2026 NHL Draft.

Klepov was the OHL's leading scorer in his rookie OHL season

In his first season in the OHL, Klepov led the league in points, recording 97 (37 G, 60 A). What made his production even more impressive was doing so on a below-average Saginaw team that finished eighth in the OHL's Western Conference out of 10 teams.

After playing last season in the USHL, Klepov was named the OHL's Rookie of the Month three times, won the scoring title, and was named the MVP of the OHL Top Prospects Game, recording a goal and two assists.

Klepov is a good skater, but there's still room for improvement, most notably lacking breakaway speed. Still, his skating isn't an issue in any regard and is better on his edges than his straight-line speed.

Klepov's hands are partially what makes him a very good skater. He's incredibly deceptive with the puck. That, along with his edge work, makes him a handful for defenders, having to react to where he's moving next.

Finishing seventh in the OHL in goals, Klepov was top among all draft-eligible players. He shows a quick release with his shot and is cerebral in his positioning, finding open space and lanes to unload a one-timer, one of his best assets.

On the defensive end of the ice, Klepov isn't going to be a Selke Trophy winner any time soon, but he holds his own. He's not much for physicality, but he has an active stick.

Next season, Klepov will be attending Michigan State, playing against much stiffer competition. He is still a bit of a raw player, and his game could use some polishing, but the skill is there, and a strong freshman season in the NCAA could really boost his confidence.

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