Viktor Kozlov

'07-08 Stats                      Age (on October 1): 33                  Contract: UFA after '09

'07-08 Season Report

Kozlov quietly posted the most points he's had in five years and the highest plus/minus rating of his career. He was frustrating to watch early on, as nothing he threw at the net went in. After scoring twice in the season's first three games, he tallied just twice more in his next 43 games. He broke out of his slump with back-to-back two-goal games and finished 4th on the Capitals in points. His +28 rating tied him with linemate Alex Ovechkin for 7th in the entire league.

Kozlov does a good job of protecting the puck with his huge frame and elastic puck handling skills. However, often times a scoring chance never ensues. It seems as if his head is always down looking at the puck rather than up, looking for the open man. If he used his skills to create more opportunities for others, ala Nicklas Backstrom, his assist total would have been higher. And Alex Ovechkin might have hit 70.

Intangibles

On a team loaded with Russian stars, Kozlov fits the mold perfectly. If Sergei Fedorov does not return to Washington next season, Kozlov will again be the oldest Russian on the team and he will be the third oldest guy on the team (after Donald Brashear and Michael Nylander.) Disappointingly, however, his experience did not equal success in the playoffs as he went scoreless and finished with the team's worst plus/minus rating (-4). He'll need to provide more leadership in clutch situations come next season.

Future Fit

Number 1 line opposite Alex Ovechkin. Barring injuries or lack of production, this is Kozlov's spot. Next season is another contract year for him, so look for more good numbers. He is proving to be a very good top six forward and has filled the void left by Dainius Zubrus' departure, the player Kozlov essentially replaced when he signed last offseason.