Goalkeeper ink deal with NHL team
In a surprising yet advantageous move, NHL newcomer Ilya Nabokov is swapping his Colorado Avalanche jersey for a Metallurg Magnitogorsk one - at least for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Although Colorado managed to snag the 22-year-old Russian goalkeeping talent with a two-year contract, they are lending him back to his KHL roots, recognizing the value of honing his skills in a top European league[1][2][3].
You heard that right, folks! Despite getting drafted by the NHL in 2024 under the 38th pick and securing a coveted spot with the Avalanche, Nabokov's next destination is back to the KHL. This loan move not only keeps Nabokov in the competitive arena but also bolsters his transition to North American hockey in the long run[2][3].
The Avalanche, with their sights set on the future, understand the importance of Nabokov's ongoing development. By keeping him in a leading European league, they can ensure that he maintains a steady flow of high-level game experience, rather than risking potential benchwarming or shared ice time in the NHL or AHL[1][2][3].
Ilya Nabokov has been a force to reckon with, as evidenced by his victory in the Gagarin Cup in the 2023/24 season and his renowned status as the most valuable player and best rookie of the playoffs[2][3]. With this recent success under his belt, his return to Metallurg offers mutual benefits for the player and both teams.
As for Colorado, they narrowly missed out on the Stanley Cup this year, falling to the Dallas Stars in the first round. Meanwhile, Metallurg experienced an early playoff exit during the 2024/25 season, being eliminated by Omsk Avangard in the first round. While Nabokov played 49 games in the regular season and five in the playoffs for Metallurg, we'll have to wait and see how this loan deal plays out for both clubs[4].
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Ilya Nabokov, having been drafted into the NHL, will temporarily leave his hockey career in North America to play in the KHL for Metallurg Magnitogorsk during the 2025-26 season, aiming to improve his skills and transition more readily to North American hockey. Despite being a key player for the Colorado Avalanche, the team recognizes the importance of his development in the high-level European league, which can provide a steady flow of competitive games.
