Pylenkov has emerged as one of the more intriguing late-round defensive prospects in fantasy after a major KHL breakout, posting 54 points in 64 games and forcing his way onto the radar in the Tampa Bay system. The 2021 seventh-round pick has shown far more offensive upside than expected, moving pucks efficiently, contributing in transition, and looking increasingly comfortable creating under pressure rather than just making the safe play. His tracking profile backs up the production, with strong transition results, loose puck recoveries, and puck battle numbers, while also offering some value in hits and shots for managers in multi-category formats. There is still a long road between KHL success and NHL relevance, but this season has significantly changed his outlook and given him real upside as a potential puck-moving NHL defenseman with deeper dynasty appeal.

Pylenkov, a Tampa Bay Lightning seventh-round pick (196th overall) in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, is ready to come to North America and hopes to land his entry-level contract with the Lightning before the 2025-26 season. The 24-year-old defenseman has bounced around the KHL since being drafted, spending time with SKA St. Petersburg, Severstal Cherepovets, and Dynamo Moscow, where he will play in 2025-26 if he does not make the move to North America this summer.

The Tampa Bay Lightning drafted Pylenkov in the seventh round (196th overall) in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.

The 2024-25 season was the best campaign of his career, as he led Dynamo defensemen in points with 31 (six goals and 25 assists); he added seven points (one goal and six assists) in 17 postseason games. With Nick Perbix potentially leaving the Lightning in free agency, there is an opportunity for Pylenkov to play in the NHL during the 2025-26 season, should he sign with Tampa Bay. Add him to your watch list.