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"Rangers anticipate that Vladislav Gavrikov's unique style might inject some fresh energy into their defensive unit"

Secured a seven-year, $49 million contract with the Rangers in the summer, Gavrikov's arrival aims to bolster Fox and bring a lasting reassurance to the defense.

Blue Line Could Gain Exciting Change with Vladislav Gavrikov's Spectacular Skills
Blue Line Could Gain Exciting Change with Vladislav Gavrikov's Spectacular Skills

"Rangers anticipate that Vladislav Gavrikov's unique style might inject some fresh energy into their defensive unit"

In the bustling world of professional hockey, the New York Rangers have welcomed a new addition this summer – Vladislav Gavrikov. But Gavrikov's connection with his fellow countrymen, Artemi Panarin and Igor Shesterkin, goes beyond just being teammates.

The friendship between Gavrikov, Panarin, and Shesterkin was initially built by none other than Alexander Ovechkin before the latter's arrival in New York as a free agent in 2021. The trio's bond dates back to their days playing on Russia's national team, with Gavrikov and Shesterkin first meeting each other as teenagers.

Their paths crossed again during the 2014 World Junior Championship, where Gavrikov had the opportunity to observe Shesterkin's exceptional skills firsthand. Fast forward to 2017, and they found themselves playing together for SKA St. Petersburg, a collaboration that continued until 2019.

Gavrikov and Shesterkin's partnership extended beyond the ice, with Gavrikov skating in front of Shesterkin during the 2014 World Junior Championship. They shared the same team dynamic in SKA St. Petersburg, contributing to the team's success.

In addition to their on-ice camaraderie, Gavrikov and Shesterkin's wives are friends off the ice, further strengthening their bond. Gavrikov also has previous interactions with Panarin, having played with him for two playoff games in 2018-19 with Columbus.

Despite the strong personal connections, Gavrikov's decision to join the New York Rangers was not solely based on his past interactions with his Russian teammates. Instead, it was a combination of factors that led him to the Big Apple, including the team's potential and the opportunity to continue his hockey career in a new environment.

Regardless of the reasons, the arrival of Gavrikov in the New York Rangers adds another layer of excitement to the team, as fans eagerly anticipate the dynamic between Gavrikov, Panarin, and Shesterkin on the ice this season.

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