Artur Akhtyamov has made quite an impression in his transition from Russian hockey to the AHL with the Toronto Marlies. Kyle Clifford compares his competitive nature to that of Jonathan Quick, highlighting Akhtyamov's relentless pursuit of the puck. The 23-year-old goalie has shown promise with a .933 save percentage in his initial games, although he faced a dip to .900 later on. His adaptability to the North American style of play, characterized by a higher volume of quality shots, speaks to his potential.

Akhtyamov's journey began in the KHL with Ak Bars-Kazan, where his skills caught the eyes of scouts, leading to his selection in the 2020 NHL Draft. Despite initial struggles, his determination shines through, as he balances language barriers and personal transitions with his professional growth. His bond with fellow Russian teammate Nikita Grebenkin has eased his adjustment, and both players are now pivotal to the Marlies’ aspirations.