Alexander Karmanov, selected in the seventh round by the San Jose Sharks, is the tallest player ever drafted to the NHL
RMNB • • sports
Key Points:
- Alexander Karmanov, drafted in the seventh round by the San Jose Sharks, is the tallest player ever selected in the NHL draft, standing 7-foot-1 and measuring 7-foot-4 in skates, comparable to NBA star Victor Wembanyama.
- Karmanov, originally from Moldova and the first Moldovan drafted, spent the 2025-26 season between the GOJHL and OHL, showing modest offensive stats but relying heavily on his size and defensive presence.
- Due to his extraordinary height, Karmanov requires customized equipment, and despite challenges such as skating ability rated very low by scouts, his size and reach make him a formidable defender.
- Committed to Penn State for the 2027-28 season, Karmanov plans to return to North Bay before that and is focused on continuous improvement to eventually compete at the NHL level.
- Comparisons have been drawn between Karmanov and former NHL player Zdeno Chara, emphasizing Karmanov's potential as a physical, defensive player who uses his size to protect teammates and control the ice.
