After playing with the Russian national team in 10 different international events, it’s safe to say that Galenyuk has gained a lot from those experiences as his game took a notable step forward this season. He’s a very safe, steady and composed defensive defenseman that can skate and keeps up with the best on the ice. His gap control is solid, and he correctly picks spots to jump forward and break up plays, including as high up as the offensive zone, but he always dials back in time if he senses danger. He is a very sticky one-on-one defender and has just enough agility to negate speedy opponents. Is very precise with his poke checks. Passing game is simple and clean, but he can make the occasional stretch pass to spring a scoring chance. Moves around in the defensive zone to make himself a passing option and can carry the puck for a few steps before making his exit pass. Displays a very good understanding of where he needs to be and what he needs to do in all shifts. Manages the flow of play and makes very few mistakes. Keeps his cool even when the pace ramps up. Offensive upside is limited, as he doesn’t like having the puck on his stick in the neutral zone or higher and his shot isn’t a threat at all. He could also stand to add more of a physical element to his game, as he doesn’t play with much of an edge and can get pushed around too easily in scrums.

– FCHockey’s 2020 NHL Draft Guide