Thrashers sign first-round pick Alex Burmistrov

ATLANTA -- The Atlanta Thrashers have signed 18-year-old forward Alex Burmistrov, the team's first-round pick this year.

Burmistrov, from Kazan, Russia, had 65 points, including 22 goals, with Barrie of the Ontario Hockey League last season.

General manager Rick Dudley says Burmistrov earned the chance to compete for a roster spot in Atlanta through his improvement and hard work in training camp.

Dudley says Burmistrov has a tremendous understanding of the game.