Gushchin isn’t always the most consistent player, but he uses his explosive acceleration and keen offensive instincts to create scoring chances for himself, usually on the rush although also sometimes through the cycle. An incisive winger who uses his hustle and deceptive feet to slice through or carve around enemy defenses, although his short strides hold him back a bit. He has a smooth stride and some slick edges, which allows him to move around the ice effortlessly and work in his way through traffic with ease. He owns a decent top speed and agility, which makes him a threat on the counterattack. When he’s engaged, he’s very intense and competitive for a smaller guy and he possesses some slick hands that help him dodge poke checks in traffic. He’s also deadly on breakaways thanks to his quick, deceptive hands. He has a high-end vision and he finds open teammates very well, especially through the neutral zone. Wrist shot is strong, and the puck jumps off his stick quick and comes in heavy on goalies. Also has a great slapshot. He showcases a high hockey IQ offensively and makes smart decisions on the breakout and off the rush. Attention to detail in the defensive end is below average. That said, he always backchecks with intensity to cover possible odd man rushes and he stays involved defensively with an active stick. He can get out of position in his own zone trying to get involved in every puck battle.

– FCHockey’s 2020 NHL Draft Guide