Alexander Zharovsky is one of the most talked-about young hockey players right now. The Montreal Canadiens picked him early in the second round of the 2025 NHL Draft, and since then, he’s been trending across hockey websites and social media. This surprise pick has made fans excited and curious. Who is Zharovsky, and why did the Canadiens choose him?

Why Everyone Is Talking About Alexander Zharovsky

During the second day of the NHL Draft, Montreal traded up to the 34^th pick and selected Zharovsky. He’s a right-handed winger from Russia with top-level skills and big upside. Many experts were surprised because he wasn’t widely known earlier in the season. But by the end of the year, he had improved so much that scouts started calling him one of the most exciting forwards in the draft.

Where He’s From and How He Got Here

Zharovsky was born in Klin, a small city in Russia. To chase his hockey dream, he left home as a teenager and joined bigger hockey academies in Moscow and later in Ufa. His hard work paid off during the 2024–25 season when he had a breakout year playing in Russia’s junior league (MHL) for Tolpar Ufa.

Strong Season in Russia

In 45 games with Tolpar Ufa, Zharovsky scored:

• 24 goals
• 26 assists
• 50 total points

He even got called up to play in the KHL playoffs, the top hockey league in Russia, where he played seven games and picked up an assist. This quick rise in competition helped him get noticed by NHL scouts.

Player Overview

• Position: Right/Left Wing
• Shoots: Right
• Height: 6 feet 1 inch
• Weight: About 165 pounds
• Current team: Salavat Yulaev Ufa (KHL)
• Contract: Signed in Russia until 2027

What Makes Zharovsky Special?

• Fast and smart skater: He’s quick on his feet and knows how to beat defenders with sharp turns and smart moves.
• Great hands: Zharovsky is very good with the puck. He can dangle around defenders and create space even in tight areas.
• Strong shot: His wrist shot is quick and accurate. He often scores on the rush and knows how to tip pucks near the net.
• Creative passer: He can make tricky passes that lead to goals. He sees plays before they happen.
• Still needs to grow stronger: He’s not very heavy yet, so he’ll need to add muscle to play in the NHL full-time.

Why Did Montreal Pick Him?

Montreal’s front office is focused on building a team full of fast, creative, and skilled players. Zharovsky fits that plan perfectly. Even though he’ll stay in Russia for a couple more years, the Canadiens believe he could become a top player once he arrives in North America.

They liked him so much that they gave up two draft picks to move up and select him. That shows they see big potential in him.

When Will He Join the Canadiens?

Because Zharovsky is still under contract with his Russian team, he can’t come to the NHL right away. Most likely, he’ll spend two more seasons in the KHL and then come to Montreal in 2027. The Canadiens will invite him to their summer development camp, where they’ll help him get used to North American ice and training styles.

What Experts Are Saying

Many scouts say Zharovsky was one of the best late risers in the draft. His skills with the puck, his confidence, and his creativity make him a rare talent. If he continues to grow and gain strength, he could be one of the biggest steals of the 2025 draft class.

What’s Next for Zharovsky?

• Summer 2025: Attend Canadiens development camp.
• 2025–26 season: Return to Russia and play a bigger role in the KHL.
• 2026–27 season: Try to become one of the best players in the KHL.
• 2027–28 season: Possibly join the Canadiens in the NHL or AHL.

Fans Are Already Excited

Habs fans reacted quickly online, posting videos of his highlights and calling him “a magician with the puck.” The hashtag #ZharovskyMagic started trending after the pick, and fans are already imagining him scoring goals at the Bell Centre shortly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Alexander Zharovsky? 

He’s an 18-year-old hockey player from Russia who was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the second round of the 2025 NHL Draft.

Why is he a popular draft pick? 

He improved a lot this year, showing amazing puck skills, strong skating, and scoring ability, especially in the MHL and KHL playoffs.

When will Zharovsky play in the NHL? 

Most likely in 2027, after his contract in Russia ends. He might come earlier if he’s released early.

What position does he play ? 

He plays as a winger, usually on the right side, but he can also play on the left. He shoots right-handed.

What makes him different from other prospects? 

He has amazing hands, fast thinking, and strong offensive instincts. He’s fun to watch and can create scoring chances out of nothing.

Final Thoughts

Alexander Zharovsky is a name Habs fans should remember. He’s skilled, smart, and full of promise. Even though he won’t be in Montreal right away, his future looks bright. If he continues to develop and build strength, he could become a key player for the Canadiens in just a few years. For now, fans will watch his journey in Russia and dream about the day he wears the red, white, and blue at the Bell Centre.