Calgary Flames' Mysterious Prospect Yan Matveiko Could Become NHL Force
The Calgary Flames may have found a hidden gem with their final selection in the 2025 NHL Draft. Yan Matveiko, chosen 211th overall, is emerging as one of the organization's most intriguing prospects despite his late-round status and overseas development path.
From Seventh-Round Pick to Russian Junior Star
While casual hockey fans might not recognize his name, those tracking the Flames' future are paying close attention to Matveiko's progress in Russia's top junior league. The 19-year-old center recently showcased his skills in the MHL's Challenge Cup, part of the KHL's all-star festivities, where he skated alongside other top prospects including Flames goaltender prospect Kirill Zarubin.
Matveiko has been productive for Krasnaya Armiya this season, recording 14 goals and 18 assists through 36 appearances while posting an impressive plus-22 rating. The lanky left-handed forward ranks third on his team in both points and plus-minus, demonstrating his two-way capabilities.
Developing Into a Complete Player
Ray Edwards, the Flames' director of player development, has been monitoring Matveiko's growth despite not being able to see him play live this season. "I have probably watched him play 10 regular-season games," Edwards revealed. "The last one, he only had an assist, but I think I counted him for, like, six quality scoring chances."
Matveiko's game extends beyond scoring. He has registered 39 hits, wins 50.2 percent of his faceoffs, and typically positions himself at the net-front on power plays. His versatility was further demonstrated when he made his professional debut in Russia's VHL (equivalent to the AHL) in late January, recording an assist in that contest.
"He's a big body, a natural centreman," Edwards emphasized. "And once he gets stronger, he could be a force."
The Scout Who Believed
The story behind Matveiko's selection reveals the importance of international scouting. Denis Grebeshkov, a former NHL defenseman who now serves as Calgary's lone amateur scout in Russia, championed the young center throughout the draft process.
After the Flames selected Swedish defenseman Jakob Leander at 208th overall, most assumed their 2025 draft work was complete. However, Grebeshkov's persistent advocacy convinced general manager Craig Conroy to trade for an additional seventh-round pick specifically to select Matveiko.
"You're kind of excited and nervous at the same time," Grebeshkov recalled about the draft-day negotiations. "There is nothing you can do besides just saying, 'I want that guy. I want that guy. Just please believe me.'"
Why Matveiko Stands Out
Grebeshkov's enthusiasm stems from Matveiko's complete skill set and hockey intelligence. "He's a really smart guy, solid, can skate, does have some skills, can make plays," the scout explained during the Flames' mid-season meetings.
What makes Matveiko particularly valuable is his versatility. He plays in all situations for his junior team—penalty kill, power play, and even-strength—while centering the top line. Having been overlooked in the 2024 draft, Matveiko entered his second year of eligibility with something to prove, and he has responded with a breakout season.
"In our junior league, he plays in any situation," Grebeshkov noted. "Right now, he's on the top line for his team and he's doing really well point-wise, too. I guess for him, the biggest thing is just to get heavier, to get stronger. He's got every tool to be an NHL player one day."
A Promising Future
For a seventh-round selection, Matveiko represents exceptional value and potential. Edwards acknowledged the uncertainty that comes with late-round picks but expressed genuine excitement about this particular choice. "He's a seventh-round pick, so you don't know what you're getting," Edwards admitted. "But today, I'm really excited about this pick. Because he checks a lot of the boxes that we need."
As Matveiko continues to develop in Russia's competitive junior system, Flames management will be watching closely. His combination of size, skill, hockey IQ, and versatility makes him a prospect worth monitoring as he works toward his ultimate goal of becoming an NHL regular.
