Pavel Anatoliyovych Padakin (Ukrainian: Павло Анатолійович Падакін; born June 8, 1994) is a Ukrainian professional ice hockey player. Primarily playing as a right winger, Padakin has competed in various leagues across North America and Europe, most notably the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
Early Career and Junior Hockey Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, Padakin began his hockey career in Russia before moving to North America. He was drafted by the Calgary Hitmen of the Western Hockey League (WHL) in the 2011 CHL Import Draft. He played two seasons with the Hitmen before being traded to the Regina Pats for the 2013-14 season. Throughout his WHL career, Padakin established himself as a versatile forward with a combination of scoring ability and physical play. His performance in junior hockey led to him being drafted by the Calgary Flames in the 5th round (137th overall) of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.
Professional Career Following his junior career, Padakin signed an AHL contract with the Stockton Heat, the American Hockey League affiliate of the Calgary Flames, for the 2015-16 season. He played a full season with the Heat, contributing to their offense.
In 2016, Padakin transitioned to the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), signing with HK Sochi. He spent two seasons with Sochi, becoming a regular contributor to the team's offense. He subsequently played for several other KHL teams, including HC Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk, HC Vityaz, Admiral Vladivostok, and HC Sibir Novosibirsk. His KHL tenure has seen him develop into a reliable two-way forward, known for his strong skating and ability to play a physical game while also contributing offensively. He has also played intermittently in Russia's second-tier league, the Supreme Hockey League (VHL).
International Play Pavel Padakin has represented Ukraine internationally at various levels. He has participated in several IIHF World Championship Division I tournaments, serving as a key player for the national team. His presence on the international stage underscores his commitment to Ukrainian hockey and his status as one of the country's prominent players.
Playing Style Padakin is characterized by his size, physicality, and strong work ethic on the ice. He is capable of playing both a grinding forechecking role and contributing with timely goals and assists. His versatility allows him to be deployed in various situations, from offensive zones to penalty killing.