Get to Know Canadiens’ 2025 Draft Pick Arseni Radkov

The Montreal Canadiens made an intriguing selection at the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, using their 82nd overall pick to select Belarusian goaltender Arseni Radkov. This choice, coming in the third round, raised a few eyebrows among casual observers but signals a clear vision from the Canadiens' scouting staff for their future in net. Radkov, a relatively unknown quantity to many North American fans prior to the draft, immediately becomes a player of significant interest for the Habs faithful, embodying the long-term strategic thinking of the franchise.

Hailing from Mogilev, Belarus, Radkov carries the hopes of his hometown on his shoulders. Should he make it to the sport's highest level, he would join an exclusive club as only the third player from Mogilev to reach the NHL, following in the footsteps of defenseman Roman Graborenko and current Calgary Flames blueliner Ilya Solovyov. This lineage adds an interesting narrative to Radkov’s journey, highlighting the growing hockey talent emerging from the Eastern European nation. The selection of a Belarusian netminder is also somewhat rare, underscoring the unique qualities the Canadiens must have identified in him to invest such a high pick.

While specific details about Radkov’s playing style and recent statistics are still emerging for a wider audience, the Canadiens’ decision suggests they see significant upside in the young puck-stopper. Goaltending is a crucial position, and teams often take calculated risks on prospects with raw talent, athleticism, and a strong work ethic, hoping to mold them into future starters. Radkov’s development path will likely involve several years honing his skills in various leagues, potentially in North America, before he can realistically challenge for a spot on an NHL roster. His size, quickness, and ability to track the puck would have been key attributes that caught the attention of Montreal’s scouts, indicating a high ceiling for his potential.

This pick represents a long-term investment in the Canadiens’ goaltending pipeline, aiming to secure depth and potential future stars between the pipes. As the 2025 draft class begins its professional journey, Arseni Radkov stands out as a fascinating project for the Canadiens. His selection is a testament to the global reach of NHL scouting and the belief that talent can be found anywhere. Fans will eagerly watch his progress, hoping he can develop into a cornerstone of the franchise’s future and add another chapter to the rich history of Belarusian players in the National Hockey League.