Meet the Rookies - Nail Yakupov

Russian-born Nail Yakupov had to rapidly adapt to life in Canada to play in the OHL.


Russian-born Nail Yakupov had to rapidly adapt to life in Canada to play in the OHL. He left behind his family, his friends, and the world he knew.

In Canada, everything is different. Yakupov has had to adjust to a new style of play and the intense scrutiny that comes with being a top prospect - yet Yakupov is thriving. He was drafted 1st overall to the Edmonton Oilers, and the future is bright for this up and coming star.