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NASHVILLE — It didn’t take long for the Nashville Predators to discover that Egor Surin, who they selected with the No. 22 pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, really enjoys the physical part of the game.

“When will I have the opportunity to start hitting?” inquired the 17-year-old forward prospect as he arrived at Predators development camp earlier this month.

The inquiry compelled Mark Borowiecki, the pro development coach in Nashville, to provide clear and explicit instructions regarding the permissible level of contact during a 3-on-3 tournament-style drill.

Borowiecki explained, “I had to make it clear that those middle boards are designed for 8-year-olds. It’s not permissible to body check into them.”

Surin’s impressive performance last season with Loko Yaroslavl in Russia’s junior league, where he scored 22 goals and provided 30 assists, has left a lasting impression on the Predators. Additionally, his remarkable personality has already made a positive impact on his teammates, despite his ongoing efforts to learn the English language.

Surin expressed, “Presently, I must declare my fondness for enormous impacts. Additionally, I greatly appreciate a cleverly played game, where I can execute intelligent passes.”

Nashville is encouraged by his combination of size (6-foot-1, 197 pounds) and skill at such a young age; the Predators also have to like that he mentions Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon and Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk as players he really enjoys watching.

Furthermore, they have high expectations that Surin will further enhance his physique, thereby transforming his strength into a formidable asset by the time he is prepared for the NHL.

Borowiecki expressed his observation, stating, “The youthfulness of his appearance is quite evident, and it’s truly admirable. When you add in those occasional displays of exceptional talent and remarkable determination, it’s truly impressive to witness in someone so young. He exudes a strong sense of confidence, but in a positive manner. It’s not conceited or boastful; rather, he possesses a genuine self-assurance. Reflecting on my own younger days, I can’t fathom being like that.”

I find it impressive to witness the talent and determination of such a young athlete who is likely under pressure as a potential first-round pick. He managed to score a stunning goal in our end. Throughout the week, he has been actively seeking knowledge by asking questions. Despite the slight language barrier, he has a wonderful personality and is quite sociable. We are thrilled to have him on our team.

During Nashville’s prospect scrimmage at camp, Surin centered a line with Matthew Wood, selected by the Predators with the No. 15 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, and Teddy Stiga, taken in the second round (No. 55) in the 2024 draft. Nashville general manager Barry Trotz repeatedly has talked about trying to find game-breaking centers through the draft.

The Predators have high hopes that Surin will eventually become one of those players.

Surin exclaimed, “Today feels like a dream come true. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I woke up. This city is absolutely fascinating to me; it’s like a dreamland.”