"Car manufacturer" extends agreements with key industry figures
Yekaterinburg's "Avtomobilist" succumbed to an early playoff departure this season, falling short against Kazan's Ak Bars in a seven-game series. Despite the disappointing outcome, the club's management continues to demonstrate confidence in the coaching staff and the team's core, announcing contract extensions for several key players.
Alexander Sharo, the newcomer forward, has cemented his place in the team for the next three seasons. Sharo, age 29, played 31 games for the Sverdlovsk team, scoring 8 goals and creating 13 assists. In the playoffs, he emerged as the team's top goal scorer, netting four goals in seven games. Expressing his satisfaction, the player commented, "I've grown fond of the city, the new venue, and the fans. I am delighted to continue my journey in this city and with this team."
Stefan Da Costa, the team's top scorer in the previous season, has also extended his contract. The 35-year-old Frenchman has been a mainstay in the KHL for ten seasons, with five of those years spent at "Avtomobilist." In his tenure, he has amassed an impressive record of 203 goals and 291 assists from 571 games. The new deal keeps him with the club until May 31, 2027.
Brooks Macek, a key forward, has also re-signed with the club. Having been part of the "drivers" since 2019, he currently holds the record for games played among foreign players for the Yekaterinburg-based club with 396 games, 147 goals, and 126 assists to his name. His new contract runs until May 31, 2026.
Defender Kirill Vorobyov, known for his selflessness, will continue his tenure with the team for another two years. Vorobyov, who has been with the club since 2023, has been a leading force in blocked shots for the past two seasons. Speaking about his decision, he admitted, "My family and I have found a great fit in Yekaterinburg – we have an exceptional team, dedicated fans, and a marvelous new stadium."
Eugene Kashnikov, a 22-year-old defender, has also secured a two-year extension with the team. Kashnikov has been playing for the "Avtomobilist" since last year and made his debut in both the regular and Gagarin Cup playoff seasons.
Nikita Shashkov, another forward who joined the team this winter, will remain with Yekaterinburg for another season. One of the KHL leaders in hits, Shashkov scored 9 points (1 goal and 8 assists) from his 35 games for the "Avtomobilist."
Alexander Sharo and Brooks Macek, key players for Avtomobilist, have extended their contracts, committing to the sports team for the next three and four seasons, respectively. Both athletes will continue to contribute to the team's success in hockey, a significant factor in the National Hockey League (NHL).
