2025-19-09 Niagara 1 @ Brampton 4 (OHL)
Yermolenko’s defining trait is his hockey IQ. Every paths he takes in the crease seemed calculated and based on his reads. He consistently performed shoulder checks to identify threats in the zone, allowing him to plan his movements and arrive on angle without relying excessively on raw explosiveness. His glove hand was also impressive, catching pucks cleanly and without hesitation. That said, there are technical flaws in his game. His RVH seals are inconsistent, leaving gaps that shooters can exploit, which cost him a goal in this game. His T-pushes were also inefficient; rather than a clean, single push across the crease, he often used two smaller pushes, which slowed him down. Yermolenko’s intelligence will generate interest, but some of his mechanics could hold him back, as NHL teams place a premium on those skills. I’ll be following his development closely, as improvement in those areas could make him a more complete prospect.