Nikita Kotlov, Senior, Midfield, Indiana
Overview:
A member of the All-Big Ten freshman team in 2010, Kotlov played in all 20 games for Indiana, tallying 12 points (3G, 6A) for the Hoosiers. He recorded his first collegiate goal in a 2-0 win over No. 22 Drake and had the game-winning goal against No. 23 Tulsa in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Kotlov’s sophomore season was a mirror image in some ways. He played in 20 games for the Hoosiers, scoring two goals (including the game winner) in a 3-0 win over No. 21 Old Dominion in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Kotlov registered 19 points (9G, 1A) in 2011 and was a First Team All-Big Ten selection.
Even though Kotlov failed to hit double-digits in goals his junior season, his ninth and final goal could not have been bigger. He scored the game-winning goal against Georgetown in the College Cup final, giving Indiana its eighth NCAA title. Kotlov was also named to the College Cup All-Tournament team and was Indiana’s second-leading scorer in 2012 with 22 points (9G, 4A).
Final Projection:
Kotlov is a solid two-way player. He can score goals but is responsible in the defensive end as well. Since he can throw the ball a mile, his throw-ins are just as effective as free kicks in the final third. While Kotlov displays some cleverness on the ball, he is inconsistent at beating defenders one-on-one. However, his hustle and willingness to win back possession help negate this deficiency to a certain extent. Kotlov’s ability to utilize both feet also provides versatility in the midfield, allowing him to play on both flanks.
