On Saturday afternoon, the Phoenix Coyotes selected defenseman Maxim Goncharov from CSKA 2 of the Russian-3 League with their fifth round selection (123rd overall).

A native of Moscow, Russia, Goncharov finished the 2006-07 campaign as the #9 European Skater according to the NHL’s Central Scouting Service (CSS).

Central Scouting describes Goncharov as a skilled, offensively-minded defenseman who controls the puck well and is always involved in the play.  Goncharov plays with grit and is strong along the boards, had good acceleration, is solid on his skates and plays with intensity.