The Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) is a professional ice hockey league that has been uniting players from around the world since 2008. With member clubs based in Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and China, the KHL provides its fans with an international showcase of incredible hockey talent on display. Featuring some of the most renowned names in NHL history as well as up-and-coming stars, this premier league guarantees exciting matchups between teams competing for glory year after year. From intense rivalries to thrilling victories and heartbreaks along the way – follow your favorite team through their journey to success.
1. Nikita Gusev
Nikita Gusev is a Russian left winger who has played for Amur Khabarovsk, CSKA Moscow and SKA Saint Petersburg. He was one of the top prospects in Russia before being drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets at the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
Injuries have slowed his progress since then but he still has potential to be an impact player in the NHL. Gusev is married and has two children.
Nikita Gusev is a Russian professional ice hockey player who currently plays for the Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League (NHL).
He was drafted 202nd overall by the Lightning in 2012, and has since played with CSKA Moscow, Amur Khabarovsk, Yugra Khanty-Mansiysk, and New Jersey Devils. In 2016–17 he won his first championship with Saint Petersburg before joining SKA Saint Petersburg for their 2017–18 season.
Gusev has also represented Russia at both junior levels and internationally, appearing at the World Junior Championships in 2011 and 2015 as well as playing at multiple Olympics including Sochi 2014 where he helped Russia to win bronze medals.
As of 2018 Nikita Gusev remains a member of SKA Saint Petersburg although speculation suggests that he could be moved on in order to make room for younger players should they excel during next year's playoffs.
2. Sergei Mozyakin
Sergei Mozyakin is a Russian professional ice hockey player who currently plays with Metallurg Magnitogorsk of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Mozyakin has played in the NHL for four seasons, most notably playing two seasons with the Edmonton Oilers.
He also played three seasons with HC Sochi of Russia's Extraliga before joining Metallurg in 2013. A prolific scorer throughout his career, Mozyakin has scored over 200 goals in both the KHL and NHL combined.
In addition to his on-ice achievements, Mozyakin is also known for his charity work within Russia and abroad, particularly with children’s charities such as “Children’s World Foundation” and “Mira Project".
As of February 2018, he had notched up 539 points in 740 career games across all competitions including 338 goals and 516 assists for 1,169 points; making him one of the most successful players ever to come out of Russia’s junior system.
3. Danis Zaripov
Danis Zaripov is a Russian professional ice hockey winger who currently plays for the Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League (NHL).
He was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in 2001, but never played for them as he spent three seasons playing with their farm team in Hamilton before being traded to Tampa Bay.
In 2014-15, Zaripov had his most productive NHL season yet, recording 41 points and helping lead the Lightning to their first ever Stanley Cup championship.
After winning another Stanley Cup title in 2018-19, Zaripov announced his retirement from professional hockey at age 36 after 14 seasons in the NHL.
A two time All Star and recipient of several awards as one of Russia’s top players including its prestigious Order of Friendship medal, Danis Zaripov holds many records both domestically and internationally during his career.
4. Chris Lee
Chris Lee is a professional footballer who played as a defender for various clubs in North America. He started his career with the Toronto Lynx before moving to the Seattle Sounders in 2002.
He spent two seasons with Seattle, helping them win the 2005 MLS Cup championship and reaching the 2006 U.S. Open Cup final.
In 2007, he joined Vancouver Whitecaps FC and won back-to-back Canadian Championships in 2008 and 2009 as well as being named MVP of both finals tournaments.
Lee made over 100 appearances for Vancouver over six seasons, winning another Canadian Championship in 2014 、and retiring at the end of that season.
After retirement from playing football, Chris returned to Canada where he currently resides and works as a coach for Premier Soccer League side Vaughan Azzurri SC.
In December 2018, it was announced that Chris had been appointed head coach of Ottawa Fury FC effective January 2019.
5. Darcy Verot
Darcy Verot was born on July 13, 1976 in Radville, Saskatchewan. He played for the Washington Capitals and AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins before joining the Saint John Flames in 2007.
Darcy has scored 233 goals and 252 assists for 455 points in 906 career NHL games. Darcy is a left wing who shoots left and is known as an effective power player with good playmaking ability from the front of the net.
Darcy Verot was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 5th round of the 1997 NHL Entry Draft. He played his first professional season with their AHL affiliate, the Syracuse Crunch. In 2000-01, he moved up to play for their top level ECHL team, Wheeling Nailers.
After two seasons there, Darcy signed a three year contract with HC CSKA Moscow of Russia's KHL league where he spent six seasons before retiring at age 33 following the 2014-15 season.
Darcy finished his career having played over 1000 games in North American and European leagues combined – an impressive total for any player but especially noteworthy given that he never made it to an NHL game.
Also Played For: saint john flames
6. Ilya Kovalchuk
Career
- National team: Russia
- NHL Draft: 1st overall, 2001
- Atlanta Thrashers
Ilya Kovalchuk was born on April 15, 1983 in Kalinin, Russia. He is 6'3" and weighs 227 pounds.
Ilya played for the Atlanta Thrashers from 2007 to 2018 before signing with the New Jersey Devils in July of this year.
Ilya's shot is right-handed and he has 154 goals and 277 assists in 906 career NHL games; putting him second all time among Russian players behind only Sergei Fedorov (389 goals).
Ilya was a first team All Star twice (2008, 2010) as well as a member of both the Stanley Cup Champion Philadelphia Flyers (2005), and Olympic Gold Medalist Canada squad at the Vancouver 2010 Olympics Ilya Kovalchuk is a Russian professional ice hockey player who played 17 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL).
In 2001, he was drafted first overall by the Atlanta Thrashers. He played for teams such as SKA Saint Petersburg, Avangard Omsk and Los Angeles Kings before moving to Montreal Canadiens in 2009.
After three seasons with Montreal, Kovalchuk left North America to play for the Washington Capitals until his retirement in 2016-17 season at age 39 due to injury.
Ilya Kovalchuk has won two Stanley Cup titles with both Washington Capitals and New Jersey Devils respectively in 2008 and 2018; thus making him one of only five players to win multiple championships with different NHL clubs (the others being Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, Mike Bossy and Sidney Crosby).
He also holds records for most goals scored in an NHL career (691), most points scored in an NHL career (1,816) and most assists in an NHL career (741).
7. Vadim Shipachyov
Shipachyov is a Russian centre who has played for the CSKA Moscow and SKA Saint Petersburg clubs in the KHL. He was signed by the Vegas Golden Knights as an unrestricted free agent in July 2018.
Shipachyov had a breakout season with CSKA Moscow in 2014-15, scoring 31 goals and 78 points to lead his team to their first ever KHL championship. Shipachyov also won silver medals with Russia at both the World Championships (2012) and the Olympic Games (2014), as well as being named Best Forward at both tournaments.
Injuries have hindered Shipachyov's progress somewhat over recent years, but he still boasts considerable international experience that could be valuable to Vegas if they make it far in future playoff appearances. Shipsachiov is married and has two children; one of whom plays hockey himself.
8. Nigel Dawes
Career
- National team: Kazakhstan
- NHL Draft: 149th overall, 2003
- New York Rangers
- Playing career: 2004–present
Dawes began his hockey career in Manitoba with the Adler Mannheim before moving to Germany to play for the Krefeld Pinguine.
Dawes had a breakout season in 2012-13, scoring 33 goals and adding 32 assists for 65 points in 46 games played as Krefeld made it all the way to the playoff finals.
Injuries have hampered Dawes since then, limiting him to just 54 games over two seasons with Frankfurt and Kassel before he was released at the end of last year.
Dawes has announced that he will return to Canada this offseason and sign with Winnipeg's newly formed affiliate team, the Manitoba Moose, who are coached by former NHL player Mike Keane.
The left wing is coming off an injury-plagued campaign where he recorded just four goals and eight assists in 53 games played but is looking forward to getting back on track with his new team this upcoming season.
Also Played For: hartford wolf pack
9. Dmitrij Jaškin
Dmitrij Jaškin is a Russian-born left winger who played for the St. Louis Blues in the NHL. He was drafted by the Blues in 2012 and made his debut with them in 2013, scoring four goals and six assists over 54 games that season.
In 2014 he improved upon those numbers by recording 11 goals and 18 assists over 76 games, as well as being named to the All-Star team for the first time in his career. The following year saw him score 17 goals and 31 assists across 82 games, helping lead St.
Louis to their second Stanley Cup championship in franchise history (the first coming back in 1944).
Jaškin has since remained with the Blues organization, appearing sporadically throughout each of the past three seasons before signing a one-year contract extension with them ahead of this year's campaign; during which he has yet again emerged as an important player on their roster, tallying 10 goals and 21 assists through 51 games thus far.
10. Dmitri Kagarlitsky
Dmitri Kagarlitsky was born on 1 August 1989 in Cherepovets, Russian SFSR, USSR. He is 5'9" and 168 lbs and plays right wing for SKA Saint Petersburg in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
Dmitri has appeared in 97 games with SKA Saint Petersburg since joining them as a rookie in 2011-12 scoring 21 goals and 50 assists for 71 points.
In May 2013, he won the award for Best Forward at the KHL's annual Awards Night where he also received a nomination for Best Player of the Year.
On 6 September 2014, Kagarlitsky scored his first career hat-trick against HC Sochi in a 7-3 victory which helped propel SKA to their seventh straight KHL championship title; they eventually lost to Metallurg Magnitogorsk 4–1 in the Finals later that month.
In April 2015, he was suspended pending an investigation into match fixing allegations by Russian hockey authorities but this was later dismissed by an Appeals Court who deemed there wasn't enough evidence to support such charges against him.
In November 2017 it was announced that Kagarlitsky had been banned from all sport activities due to health concerns stemming from concussion symptoms he suffered during his time playing internationally with Russia at both under 18s & senior levels over two seasons (2015/16 & 2016/17).
11. Stéphane Da Costa
Da Costa was born on July 11, 1989 in Paris, France. He is 5'11" and weighs 179 pounds. Da Costa played for the Ottawa Senators from 2013 to 2015 before he was traded to the Montreal Canadiens in 2016.
In 2018, Da Costa signed with HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). He has played at both center and right wing throughout his career and has had success in Europe as well as North America.
Da Costa is a two-time All-Star who won a Gold Medal with France at the World Junior Championships in 2009 and silver medals at both the World Championship (2012) and European Championship (2013).
As captain of Team France, he led them to victory over Sweden in the 2019 IIHF World Cup Final – their first world championship title since 1986. He played for Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg in the KHL from 2011-2015. He then transferred to Ottawa Senators of the NHL, but was never drafted and did not play with them longterm.
In 2017 he joined CSKA Moscow and has been there ever since. Da Costa is a French national team player, who has participated in various tournaments such as World Championships and Olympics over the years.
He also played several seasons with Genève-Servette HC of the Swiss NLA before joining Lokomotiv Yaroslavl in 2018/19 season where he currently plays under contract until 2021/22 campaign.
12. Taylor Beck
Career
- 2007–08 Guelph Storm
- 2008–09 Guelph Storm
- 2009–10 Guelph Storm
- 2010–11 Guelph Storm
- 2010–11 Milwaukee Admirals
- 2011–12 Milwaukee Admirals
- 2012–13 Nashville Predators
- 2013–14 Milwaukee Admirals
- 2013–14 Nashville Predators
- 2014–15 Nashville Predators
- 2015–16 Bridgeport Sound Tiger
- 2015–16 New York Islanders
Taylor Beck is a right wing for the KHL team, Sibir Novosibirsk. He was drafted by the St. Catharines Blast in the fourth round of the 2009 OHL Priority Selection from Stoney Creek Secondary School in Ontario, Canada.
In his rookie season with the Blast (2011-12), he led all rookies with 36 points (18 goals and 18 assists) in 54 games played and helped lead his team to their first appearance in the OHL Finals that year where they were defeated by Mississauga Steelheads 4-games-to-1.
The following season saw Beck score an impressive 71 points (39 goals and 30 assists) in just 50 games played as he helped lead his team to another berth in the OHL Finals where they were once again defeated by Mississauga Steelheads this time 4-games-to-1.
Beck then left for Europe after completing his junior career with Sarnia Sting of the Canadian Hockey League during the 2012–13 season scoring 56 points (27 goals and 29 assists).
Over 60 games played before leaving for further development at SKA Saint Petersburg of Russia’s Kontinental Hockey League during 2013–14 campaign scoring 46 points (19 goals and 27 assists).
After two successful seasons abroad, Beck returned to North America signing a two year contract extension with Colorado Avalanche on May 3, 2016 worth $925K ($100K per annum).
On July 1st, 2017 Taylor signed a one year deal worth $650K+/year (~€500k/$70k annually) with Russian club Sibir Novosibirsk who are currently participating in Champions Hockey League playoffs.
However due to injury suffered towards end of the regular season Taylor had to withdraw from playoff action altogether which meant that Sibir did not receive any CHL playoff entry fee nor prize money even though they made it into group stage.
Also Played For: milwaukee admirals
13. Vladimir Tkachev
Vladimir Tkachev was born in Omsk, Russia on October 5th 1995. He played major junior hockey with the Spokane Chiefs of the Western Hockey League (WHL).
In 2014, he signed an entry-level contract with the Edmonton Oilers and made his NHL debut that season. After playing two seasons in Edmonton, he was traded to the Arizona Coyotes at the trade deadline in 2018.
He currently plays for HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Vladimir Tkachev is a Russian professional ice hockey player who was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the 7th round of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.
Tkachev has played for several teams in Russia, including Avangard Omsk, SKA Saint Petersburg, Admiral Vladivostok and Salavat Yulaev Ufa before moving to North America to play with the Los Angeles Kings in 2017-18.
Vladimir is known as an offensive defenseman and plays a physical game; he led all defensemen with 38 points (10 goals and 26 assists) in 57 games during his rookie season with the Kings.
Tkachev represented Russia at various youth international tournaments, such as World Junior Championships and IIHF World Championship where he won silver medal in 2016 playing for Ufa alongside teammate Anze Kopitar.
14. Alexander Radulov
Career
- KHL team: Ak Bars Kazan
- Former teams: Dynamo Moscow
- Nashville Predators
- Salavat Yulaev Ufa
- CSKA Moscow
- Montreal Canadiens
- Dallas Stars
- National team: Russia
- NHL Draft: 15th overall, 2004
- Nashville Predators
Alexander Radulov is a Russian professional ice hockey player who currently plays for CSKA Moscow in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Radulov was drafted by Nashville Predators in first round, seventh overall of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft.
He signed with Dallas Stars as a free agent on July 1, 2012 and played with them until he was traded to Montreal Canadiens on February 29, 2016.
In his four seasons with Dallas, Radulov recorded 136 points (44 goals and 88 assists) while being voted an All-Star twice and leading team in scoring three times consecutively from 2013 to 2015.
On February 29th 2016, Radulov was traded to Montreal Canadiens where he has spent majority of his career since joining the club as a free agent in 2012-13 season after leaving Dallas Stars following their Cup run that year.
He scored 26 goals and 50 assists for 76 points total over 186 games played during 4 years with Habs before signing 2 year deal worth $10 million per season with SKA St Petersburg on May 15th 2020.
Alexander Radulov represented Russia at numerous tournaments such as World Championships (2007), Olympics (2010) and IIHF World Championship(2015).
He also won gold medal at 2011 IIHF World Junior Championship playing alongside current Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner.
Alexander Radulov is married to Anastasia Karolina Yurievna Sokolova who he met while both were students at Nizhny Tagil Sports School. They have one son together named Aleksander Antonovich Sokoloskiy born August 2018.
Also Played For: dallas stars, nashville predators
15. Reid Boucher
Career
- 2009–10 U.S. NTDP Juniors
- 2009–10 U.S. NTDP U17
- 2009–10 U.S. NTDP U18
- 2010–11 U.S. NTDP Juniors
- 2011–12 Sarnia Sting
- 2011–12 Albany Devils
- 2012–13 Sarnia Sting
- 2012–13 Albany Devils
Reid Boucher is a left wing who played for the New Jersey Devils in 2016. Boucher was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the second round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, but never signed with them.
He then spent two seasons playing with HC Sochi of Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). On July 1, 2016, Boucher was signed to a one-year contract by the Devils.
In his first season with New Jersey, he scored 14 goals and added 11 assists for 25 points in 66 games played; ranking fourth on team behind Taylor Hall (29 goals, 54 assists), Nico Hischier (26 goals, 53 assists) and Jesper Bratt (22 goals, 44 assists).
The following year, 2017–18 campaign saw Boucher post career highs across all categories as he tallied 26 goals and 46 assists for 70 points in 82 games played.
Devil's roster both offensively and defensively while being named an alternate captain midway through season.
After again posting strong numbers throughout preseason play during 2018–19 season however suffering from injury sustained early. October against Carolina Hurricanes which caused him to miss 10 games total including seven within first eight contests returning.
November 5th against Boston Bruins recording six shots on goal without registering any point or assist before going down again December 22nd versus Edmonton Oilers game ending his campaign after 63rd game due to a concussion diagnosis later revealed.
It wasn't actually concussions causing headaches that led him out of those three contests but rather sinus infections so frustratingly taking away.
What would have been another productive year statistically at this stage of his career likely hindered somewhat because head coach John Hynes decided not to put him back into lineup until cleared medically despite urging from teammates.
He finished fifth among NJD scoring leaders averaging 0:25 minutes ice time per contest placing eighth overall on team his 175 hits were also ninth most amongst players recorded defenseman Damon Severson led league averaging 2:14 minutes ice time per contest.
16. Roman Starchenko
Roman Starchenko is a professional mixed martial artist who competes in the Light Heavyweight division. He was born and raised in Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan, and became interested in MMA while serving time in prison for robbery.
After winning his first seven fights by knockout or submission, Starchenko lost to current UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones at UFC 159 on April 27th, 2013.
In December of that year he signed with Russian promotion M-1 Global FC and has since won three straight fights by knockout or submission - including a second consecutive victory over former champion Alexander Gustafsson.
At 26 years old, Roman Starchenko is one of the younger fighters competing at the top level of MMA; he's also one of its most successful recent graduates, having made an impact both inside and outside the cage within just two short years after starting out as an unknown quantity armed only with raw talent and determination.
Now training alongside some of Russia's best coaches under renowned Mixed Martial Arts guru Mark Hunt at Straight Blast Gym (SBG), Roman promises to bring his unique blend of power grappling skillset and devastating striking game to even more Fight Night events around the world soon enough.
17. Lauris Dārziņš
Career
- KHL team: Dinamo Riga
- Former teams: Ilves Tampere
- HC Vsetín
- HC Třinec
- Ak Bars Kazan
- Traktor Chelyabinsk
- National team: Latvia
- NHL Draft: 268th overall, 2003
- Nashville Predators:
- Playing career: 2001-2022–present
Lauris Dārziņš was born in 1985 in Riga, Latvia. He is 6' 3" tall and weighs 191 pounds. He plays left wing for HC Sochi of the KHL league.
Lauris has represented his country at both the junior and senior levels, winning a silver medal at the World Junior Championships in 2002 and a gold medal at the 2006 Winter Olympics with Latvia's national team.
Lauris is considered one of Latvia's most promising young athletes, having been named Sportsperson of the Year twice (in 2007 and 2009).
Lauris has two children - a son who was born in December 2013 and a daughter who was born on January 17th 2015 Lauris Dārziņš is a Latvian professional ice hockey player who has played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Nashville Predators.
He was drafted by the Predators in 2003 and has since played with them, as well as several other teams in North America.
His best years statistically came during his tenure with Traktor Chelyabinsk of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). In 2017, he was signed to play for Dinamo Riga of the Liiga championship playoffs, where he helped lead his team to their first ever major trophy - Baltic Cup.
Overall, Lauris Dārziņš has had an impressive career playing both at home and abroad; he will be remembered most fondly by fans of Nashville Predator.
Also Played For: kelowna rockets
18. Mikhail Varnakov
Mikhail Varnakov is a Russian professional ice hockey right winger. He was selected by the Montreal Canadiens in the 4th round (122nd overall) of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.
After playing with HC Nizhny Novgorod for four seasons, he joined HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) in 2009. In his first season with Sochi, Varnakov helped lead them to their third championship title in team history and was named KHL Most Valuable Player (MVP).
The following year, 2010-11, he helped win another championship as well as being named a finalist for both the Best Defenseman and Forward awards in the KHL playoffs that year. On July 3rd, 2012, Mikhail signed a two-year contract extension with SC Bern of Swiss National League A (NLA).
In 2013–14 he led Bern to their fourth league title since 2000; again finishing as MVP and earning him election into Switzerland's national ice hockey Hall of Fame later that year along with fellow countrymen Jean-Pierre Gustafson and Dominique Ducharme.
19. Sean Collins
Sean Collins is a Canadian centre who has played for the Edmonton Oilers, Boston Bruins and Calgary Flames in his NHL career. He was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the second round of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.
Collins made his debut with the Oilers during the 2007-08 season playing in 54 games and scoring six goals and ten assists. In 2009-10, he scored 16 goals and 21 assists for 37 points over 79 games as an rookie with Edmonton before being traded to Boston at the trade deadline that year.
In 2010-11, he led all rookies with 32 goals while also adding 39 assists for 63 points in 78 games which helped him win Rookie of The Year honours from both organizations; he then signed a four-year contract extension with Boston shortly.
After winning MVP honours at the 2011 Stanley Cup playoffs despite surgery on his hand just prior to Game 7 against Philadelphia that year - this injury kept him out of action until December 2012.
When he rejoined Calgary as part of their offseason rebuild but again struggled offensively recording only 5 goals through 49 games before being waived on January 6th, 2014.
On February 25th ,2014 Sean signed a two-year deal worth $1 million per season with HC Sochi (KHL). After struggling to find form early into Sochi's inaugural KHL campaign Sean was traded to Atlant Moscow Oblast (KHL) on November 20th ,2015 whereupon he regained some form helping.
Atlant finish eighth overall – earning himself another 2 year contract extension midway through 2016/17 season.
Sean returned to North America signing a one year deal worth $650 000 per season plus bonuses pending league approvalwiththe Vancouver Giants (WCHL)on July 1st 2017.
After failing fitness tests due not able play because VAN refused US work permit soSean left AGAIN without playing a game.
20. Evgeni Malkin
Career
- NHL team: Pittsburgh Penguins
- Former teams: Metallurg Magnitogorsk
- National team: Russia
- NHL Draft: 2nd overall, 2004
- Pittsburgh Penguins
Malkin was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2005 and has been one of their top players ever since. Malkin won the Stanley Cup with the Penguins in 2009, 2012, and 2017.
He also played on Russia's gold medal-winning teams at the 2010 Winter Olympics and 2014 Winter Olympics. Malkin is a two-time Hart Trophy winner (the NHL's most prestigious award) as well as a three-time Art Ross Trophyist (the league’s leading scorer).
In 2018 he became only the fourth player in history to score 500 goals during his career, joining Wayne Gretzky, Sidney Crosby, and Gordie Howe.
On 31 January 2019 Evgeni Malkin announced that he would be retiring from professional hockey after 19 seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins Evgeni Malkin is a Russian-born professional ice hockey player who has played for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League (NHL) since 2003.
He was drafted second overall by the Penguins in 2004 and won two Stanley Cups with them in 2009 and 2016.
Malkin also represented Russia at both the World Cup of Hockey in 2013 and the Olympic Games twice, winning a gold medal in 2014. In 2018, he announced his retirement from professional hockey after 18 seasons with Pittsburgh.
Evgeni Malkin is widely considered to be one of the best players ever to play in the NHL and ranks fifth all-time on the points scored list behind only Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, Mario Lemieux and Mark Messier.
21. Mikhail Pashnin
Mikhail Pashnin is a 29-year-old defender who currently plays for FC Krylia Sovetov Samara. Pashnin began his career with FC Torpedo Moscow, and also played for FC Terek Grozny and Rostov on Don.
He made his international debut in 2009, playing for the Russia national team at the Euro 2012 qualifiers. Mikhail Pashnin was born in Chelyabinsk, Russian SFSR, to footballing parents - his father played as a goalkeeper for Dynamo Kharkiv and CSKA Moscow.
While his mother represented Russian amateur sides including Ural Polytechnic University's women's team which reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Women's Cup in 1988 (the first year that teams from different parts of Europe could compete).
After arriving in Krylia Sovetov Samara ahead of their first season back in the second tier following relegation from Ligue 1 last term, Mikhail Pashnin has quickly become an important part of head coach Valery Gazzaev’s side.
Making 22 appearances across all competitions so far this season as they battle it out towards promotion back to Russia’s top flight again. "Mikhail is very athletic," Gazzaev told Sport Express newspaper after one recent game against Mordovia Saransk.
He can jump high [and] he can hit balls well." With both feet able to shoot accurately from distance either left or right footed, Mikhail Pashnin is not your average defender.
However what sets him apart even further is his powerful aerial ability which allows him to clear danger away from goal effectively on numerous occasions during games: “I like defending because I like tackling people – there are plenty of challenges here.
Physically my body copes well with these conditions – I love running up hills. The main thing when you play football is stamina because defenders have long matches."
As improving fitness levels continue apace throughout 2013/14 campaign along with regular involvement within the Aeroflot Cup squad where he has netted two goals thus far (including an 8th-minute header versus Zenit Kamenskoye).
Alongside strong performances off the pitch such as organising charity events benefitting local children living without parental care due to illness or disability (such initiatives having been organised by MPP Foundation), expectations will be high should Krylia Sovetov make their return back into Champions.
22. Mikhail Stefanovich
Mikhail Stefanovich was born in 1989 in Minsk, Belarus. He is 6' 2" tall and weights 214 lbs. Mikhail Stefanovich played right wing for the United States Men's National Team at the 2013 IIHF World Championship where he helped lead his team to a Bronze Medal finish.
In addition to playing hockey, Mikhail Stefanovich also has experience with track and field as he competed in the shot put event at the 2011 IAAF World Championships where he placed 5th overall behind eventual champion Christopher Latham of Great Britain, Sergey Shubenkov of Russia, David Olivera of Venezuela and Gabriel Sánchez of Cuba; finishing with a throw of 19.84 meters (62 ft 3 1/2in).
After graduating from Princeton University with honors in 2010, Mikhail Stefanovich began his professional career playing for HC Sochi before signing with Union Berlin later that year; eventually moving on to play for EHC München during the 2012-13.
Season before returning home to play for Ak Bars Kazan during the 2014-15 season - winning both Russian Professional Hockey League (VPHL) regular season titles along the way while being named MVP both seasons respectively.
On September 11th 2015 it was announced by USA Hockey that they had selected Mikhail Stefanovich as one of 22 players who would represent their country at this year's Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
Making him only the second player after Patrick Kane to be drafted into an NHL club and then make himself available for selection by USA Hockey for international competition (the other being Brian Gionta).
23. Ilya Kablukov
Ilya Kablukov is a Russian professional ice hockey center. He currently plays for HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Ilya Kablukov was born in Moscow, Russia on January 18th, 1988.
Ilya Kablukov played major junior hockey with Dynamo Moscow before making his debut in the NHL with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2009-10. After two seasons with Columbus, Kablukov signed as a free agent with Dynamo Saint Petersburg and spent three years there before joining HC Sochi for the 2015-16 season.
In 208 NHL games over six seasons, Ilya Kablukun recorded 36 goals and 103 points to go along with 424 penalty minutes and 107 blocked shots.
In addition to playing professionally in Europe, Ilya also competes internationally for Russia at both the World Championships (2013) and Olympic Games (2014), winning silver at both tournaments behind Canada's Sidney Crosby.
24. Chris Simon
Chris Simon was born in 1972 in Wawa, Ontario. He played for the Quebec Nordiques and Colorado Avalanche before joining the Calgary Flames in 2005. Simon has scored over 500 career points including 274 goals and 564 assists in 938 NHL games.
In 2010-11, he led the Flames to their first Stanley Cup championship since 2004.
He retired from professional hockey after playing with HC Davos of the Swiss NLA at the end of the 2017-18 season where he had recorded 41 points (14G, 25A) in 51 games played as a left wing player and captain of team Switzerland at age 50 years old.
Chris Simon was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1992 NHL Draft. He played for six different teams during his playing career, and most notably spent time with the Washington Capitals and Chicago Blackhawks.
Simon retired from professional hockey following the 2013 season, having amassed over 1,000 points in his career. He is a four-time NHL All Star and won a Stanley Cup with Washington in 1998.
Simon has also been awarded several medals throughout his career - including three Gold Medals at the World Championships (1999, 2003, 2007).
25. Evgeny Artyukhin
Artyukhin began his professional career with HC Vityaz in the KHL. He was signed by the Tampa Bay Lightning as a free agent in 2014 and spent two seasons there before being traded to the New York Rangers at the conclusion of that season.
Artyukhin has represented Russia on numerous occasions, most notably at both the World Championships and Olympic Games. In 2018, he joined Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk for one final KHL campaign before retiring from hockey altogether later that year.
Evgeny Artyukhin was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2001 NHL Draft. Evgeny began his professional career with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). In 2007, he transferred to Avangard Omsk of the Russian Superleague (RSL).
He then joined Anaheim Ducks for their 2008–09 campaign where he recorded 18 points in 36 games played.
After a long stint with Atlanta Thrashers, Evgeny returned to Russia and signed with CSKA Moscow in 2013. In 2016, he moved back to North America and signed with SKA Saint Petersburg of the KHL for one season before joining Sibir Novosibirsk for another year in 2017-18 season.
He then re-joined CSKA Moscow as an unrestricted free agent this off-season and has already made an impact scoring 5 goals and 10 assists through 26 games played thus far this season.
26. Tomáš Klouček
Tomáš Klouček was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia on March 7th, 1980. He began playing hockey at a very young age and quickly developed into one of the top defencemen in his country.
In 2001, Klouček joined HC Bílí Tygři Liberec of the Czech Extraliga and would stay with them until 2006 when he was drafted by the New York Rangers in the 2nd round (54th overall).
After spending two seasons with the Rangers' AHL affiliate Springfield Falcons, Klouček made his NHL debut during the 2002-03 season as an 18-year-old rookie and played 48 games for New York that year.
The following season saw Klouček make even more progress as he appeared in all 82 regular season games for New York before scoring 5 goals and adding 28 assists to finish 3rd among team blueliners in points behind Brian Leetch and Alexei Kovalev.
Following another successful campaign with NYR where he posted 26 points including 4 goals from 12 penalty minutes (PIM) – earning him 1st Team All Star honors – Tomáš was traded to Nashville along with Chris Drury for Derek Roy & Martin Stålberg midway through 2005-06 season.
With Nashville, Tomáš continued to be a key player on their defense corps appearing in all 82 games each year from 2006 until 2008 helping lead them to consecutive Western Conference Finals appearances between 2007 & 2008 but eventually losing both times against.
On July 1st 2009 it was announced that Tomáš had signed a five-year deal worth $26 million extension which will keep him with Atlanta Thrashers through 2013–14 Season.
Currently playing for HC Bílí Tygři Liberec of the Czech Extraliga after being released by Atlanta earlier this season.
27. Igor Golovkov
Igor Golovkov is a Russian defender who currently plays for FC Krylia Sovetov Samara. He made his debut in the Russian Premier League with FC Krylia Sovetov Samara in 2008, and has since played for other clubs such as Rostov, Zenit Saint-Petersburg and FK Krasnodar.
Igor Golovkov was part of the Russia national team that won the bronze medal at the 2010 World Cup, playing all three matches including their 2-1 victory over Spain in the semifinal stage. In July 2014 he signed a two-year contract extension with Krylia Sovetov Samara until 2017.
Igor Golovkov is known for his strong physique and aerial ability from defence; he also possesses good passing range and tackling technique which makes him an effective leader on the field defensively Igor Golovkov is a Russian-born ice hockey player who has played for HC Vityaz, Dyanmo Moscow, and the NHL's Ottawa Senators.
He was drafted by the Ottawa Senators in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft but he did not sign with them and instead chose to continue his career in Russia. Igor Golovkov then signed with HC Vityaz in 2011 after spending two seasons playing for Dyanmo Moscow.
In 2014, he won a silver medal at the World Championships as part of Team Russia and also helped his team reach the KHL Finals that year where they lost to SKA St Petersburg.
Igor Golovkov currently plays for Metallurg Magnitogorsk of the KHL where he has been since 2016-17 season when Metallurg replaced CSKA Moscow following their suspension from international competition due to doping offences committed by some of their players.
28. Grigori Panin
Grigori Panin is a Russian defender who currently plays for FC Terek Grozny. Grigori Panin made his debut in the Russian Premier League with FC Krylia Sovetov Samara back in 2006, and has since played for numerous other clubs including FC Anzhi Makhachkala, Spartak Moscow, Torpedo Moscow and FC Rostov.
In Russia's 2014 World Cup campaign he was an ever-present as the hosts reached the last 16 before being eliminated by Belgium. Outside of football, Grigori Panin is also a fitness enthusiast and runs regularly throughout the year to stay fit both physically and mentally.
He was born on November 24th 1985 in Togliatti, Soviet Russia to parents Sergei (a railway worker) and Tatyana (an accountant).
Growing up playing football alongside his brother Valeri at local club Arsenal Togliatti didn't seem like such a farfetched idea after all.
Having graduated from school with honours whilst still playing football professionally - something that very few people can say - GrigoriPanin decided it was time to focus on his career full-time rather than continue studying law as originally planned lthough he hasn't given up law completely yet.
After making over 200 appearances for various clubs around Europe during his long career so far, Grigorrii would love nothing more than to win silverware with one of them someday either way you could be sure that he'll give everything he's got when wearing their colours.
29. Yevgeny Biryukov
Born in 1986, Biryukov is a Russian professional ice hockey player who currently plays for HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). A left-winger, he has also played for several other clubs in Russia and Kazakhstan over the course of his career.
In 2013–14, he made his debut with HC Sochi of the KHL and helped them to win their first league championship.
He was named MVP of the 2014 IIHF World Championship after leading all players with eight goals in seven games as Russia won a silver medal. In May 2018, Biryukov signed a two-year contract extension with HC Sochi worth an estimated $1 million USD per season.
He represented Russia at both the 2006 Winter Olympics and 2010 Winter Olympics where they finished fourth and sixth respectively on home soil; having been captain at both tournaments prior to being overtaken by Evgeny Kuznetsov during Euro 2016 qualifying campaign.
30. Dmitri Lugin
Dmitri Lugin was born in Khabarovsk, Russia on April 1st 1990. He is 6'0" and weighs 188lbs which places him as a right wing player. Dmitri started his professional career with Amur Khabarovsk before joining CSKA Moscow in 2009 where he has made over 100 appearances scoring 31 goals including 27 league goals.
In January of this year Dmitri joined German side Eintracht Frankfurt for an undisclosed fee, making his debut against FC Krasnodar the following week netting in a 2-1 victory His performances for Frankfurt have seen him being linked with several top European clubs including Bayern Munich.
Manchester United and Liverpool but so far no deal has been finalised Dmitri Lugin is a Russian professional ice hockey player who currently plays for HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
Dmitri Lugin was drafted by Admiral Vladivostok in the seventh round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, but never played for them as he signed with Dynamo Moscow instead.
After two seasons with Dynamo Moscow, Lugin joined Amur Khabarovsk in 2011 where he spent three seasons before joining Lokomotiv Yaroslavl in 2014.
In 2017, Lugin signed with HC Sochi and has since helped them to win back-to-back championships and make it to the playoffs twice more.
Dmitri Lugin has also represented Russia at various international tournaments including the World Championships (2011 & 2013), European Championships (2012 & 2016), and World Cup of Hockey (2016).
31. Steve Moses
Moses was born in Leominster, Massachusetts on August 9th 1989. He played high school hockey for the Shattuck-St. Mary's Warriors and then attended Boston College where he played NCAA Division I hockey with the Eagles from 2007 to 2010.
Moses made his professional debut with the Albany Devils of the AHL in 2011 and had a breakout season, scoring 27 goals and 52 points in 73 games as a rookie pro player. In 2012-13, Moses moved up to join New Jersey's NHL team, the Devils, and continued his stellar play by
scoring 24 goals (tied for second highest total on team) and 47 points en route to being named an Alternate Captain for 2013-14 campaign – his first full NHL season.
Moses signed a six year contract extension with New Jersey at the end of 2014-15 which will keep him with the Devils until at least 2020-21.
Also Played For: jokerit
32. Artūrs Kuzmenkovs
Artūrs Kuzmenkovs was born on December 1, 1993 in Daugavpils, Latvia. 2. He is 6'2" tall and weighs 185 lbs. 3. Artūrs has played for several Latvian clubs including FK Jelgava and FC Liepāja before joining Russian side FC Rostov in the summer of 2017.
4. In February 2019 he signed with English club Sheffield United on a free transfer after playing 11 times for Latvia at senior level scoring one goal.
At age 29, Artūrs is still young enough to develop his skills further in Europe's top leagues Artūrs Kuzmenkov is a Latvian professional ice hockey player who plays for Kraft in the Austrian Hockey League (EBEL).
He was drafted by the Nashville Predators in the 4th round, 118th overall of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Artūrs first played professionally with HK Riga of the Russian Superleague (RSL) before joining HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) as a free agent in 2013.
In 2016, he moved to Austria and signed with Kraft where he currently plays his club hockey. Artūrs has also appeared for Latvia at various international tournaments including World Championships and IIHF World Championship qualification competitions.
On October 15, 2017, Artūrs scored his first career goal during Latvia's 5-1 victory over Italy in an international friendly match.
33. Rustams Begovs
Rustams Begovs is a 29-year-old center who currently plays for Zalgiris Kaunas of the Lithuanian Basketball League. He was born in Olaine, Latvia and raised there before moving to Lithuania as a teenager.
Begovs played college basketball at Saint Joseph's University where he averaged 17 points and 11 rebounds per game over three seasons. Signed with Zalgiris Kaunas prior to the 2016–17 season, Begovs has since emerged as one of the team's top players, averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds per game this year.
His international experience includes appearances for Latvia at both the U18 and U20 levels, as well as playing in several European Competitions including EuroBasket 2015 where he helped Latvia reach the quarterfinals where they lost to eventual champions Serbia).
The 2017–18 season will be his first full campaign with Zalgiris Kaunas, who are looking to win their eleventh championship title in 12 years (the last time they won it was back in 2003).
34. Emil Garipov
Emil Garipov is a goaltender who plays for HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). He was born in Kazan, Russia on August 15, 1991.
Garipov played youth hockey with HC Sochi before being drafted by SKA Saint Petersburg in the 2nd round of the 2009 KHL Draft.
After spending four seasons with SKA Saint Petersburg, he joined Russian Premier Division side Admiral Vladivostok for the 2015-16 season.
In 2016-17, he made his debut in the NHL as an emergency goalie for Pittsburgh during their playoff run; however he did not appear in any games and was returned to Admiral Vladivostok afterwards.
On July 1st, 2017 Emil signed a two year contract extension with HC Sochi which will keep him at the club until 2020-21 KHL Season. Garipov has represented Russia at both Under 18 and World Junior Championships level but has yet to make an appearance at Senior International level.
35. Kirill Kaprizov
Career
- 2013–14: Kuznetskie Medvedi
- 2014–15: Metallurg Novokuznetsk
- 2014–15: Kuznetskie Medvedi
- 2015–16: Metallurg Novokuznetsk
- 2015–16: Kuznetski Medvedi
- 2016–17: Salavat Yulaev Ufa
- 2017–18: CSKA Moscow
Kirill Kaprizov is a Russian left winger who currently plays for Metallurg Novokuznetsk. Kaprizov made his debut in the KHL in 2015 and helped the team win the Gagarin Cup that year.
He also represented Russia at both the U18 and U20 World Championships, scoring six goals in 16 games at each tournament.
In 2019, Kaprizov was named to Russia's World Championship roster but did not play due to an injury suffered during training camp; he has since recovered and returned to playing with Metallurg Novokuznetsk.
Kaprizov has been praised for his speed, skill on the ice, and shot accuracy from distance; he is seen as one of Russia’s most promising young hockey players.
During his time with Metallurg Novokuznetsk, Kaprizov has developed a strong partnership with goaltender Igor Shestyuk which has led to them becoming known as “Kapri-Shea” within the club’s locker room.
Kirill Kaprizov is a left-handed shooting Russian forward who has spent the majority of his playing career in the NHL with the Minnesota Wild. Kaprizov was drafted by the Wild 135th overall in 2015 and made his debut that season.
He scored 10 goals and added 18 assists for 28 points in 79 games played as a rookie, helping lead Minnesota to their first-ever playoff berth.
In 2017–18, Kaprizov scored 17 goals and contributed 34 assists for 51 points in 82 games played, earning him a nomination for both the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy (given to the best gentleman player) and Hart Memorial Trophy (the NHL's most valuable player).
Kaprizov signed an eight-year contract extension with Minnesota earlier this year worth $46 million CAD which will keep him with the team until 2024–25.
Kirill Kaprizov is considered one of Russia's top offensive talents and has represented his country at various international competitions including the World Championships, Olympic Games, Euro Hockey Championships and World Cup of Hockey.
36. Egor Milovzorov
Milovzorov is a Russian forward who predominantly plays for FC Krasnodar. Milovzorov rose to prominence in Russia with Krylia Sovetov Samara, where he scored 35 goals from 86 appearances in all competitions between 2005 and 2009.
With Krasnodar, Milovzorov has established himself as an important player, scoring 18 times in 52 games across all competitions since joining the club on loan from Krylia Sovetov Samara in January 2014. A fast and powerful runner with good heading ability, Milowozoroves is known for his direct play and determination on the pitch.
He was called up to the Russian national team for the first time in October 2013 but did not make an appearance before being omitted from their squad for Euro 2016 due to injury problems. In May 2017 he signed a contract extension until 2020 with FC Krasnodar.
37. Vasily Koshechkin
Vasily Koshechkin was born on March 27, 1983 in Tolyatti, Russia. He is a goaltender who plays for HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Koshechkin played his first professional hockey game with HC Sochi during the 2002-03 season.
In total, he has appeared in 548 games over 11 seasons with the club. Vasily has been an integral part of Team Russia at both World Junior Championships and the Men's Olympic Games.
At Worlds in 2005 and 2007, he helped guide his country to silver medals while also appearing in five contests at the Olympics including their most recent victory back in Vancouver four years ago this month where they topped Canada 4-1 en route to gold medal glory.
As far as awards go, Vasily gained recognition from league peers when he was named best goaltender of the year three times consecutively – 2012-13; 2013-14; 2014–15 - by combining points earned through regular season play as well as playoffs/tournaments held that year.
Which included KHL Finals MVP honors. Married to Canadian ice dancer Tessa Virtue since early 2016 after meeting her competing at a Figure Skating competition shortly before their nuptials.
38. Anton Shenfeld
Anton Shenfeld was born on July 23, 1993 in Magnitogorsk, Russia. He is 5'10" tall and weighs 157 pounds. He is a forward for CSKA Moscow of the Russian Premier League.
Shenfeld has scored 14 goals in 58 appearances in all competitions for CSKA Moscow since making his debut in 2013-14 season; he also has three assists to his name during that time period.
In 2014, he helped Russia win the FIFA U-20 World Cup trophy after scoring four goals at the tournament - including two against Brazil in the semi-final and final respectively which led to Russia's first ever world title as U-20s.
This made him one of only five players (along with Pelé, Zinedine Zidane, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaká) to have won both an under 20 World Cup and senior international honour (the others being Messi/Ronaldo/Kaka).
Anton Shenfeld also represented his country at Euro 2016 where they reached the quarter finals before losing out 4-1 on aggregate to eventual champions Portugal; here he scored once against Gibraltar but didn't feature prominently otherwise due to injury problems sustained early into their knockout stages campaign.
39. Adam Almquist
Adam Almquist is a Swedish defenceman who has played in the NHL for the Detroit Red Wings and Colorado Avalanche. Almqvist was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the third round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.
He made his debut with them during the 2013–14 season. Almqvist signed with Colorado Avalanche as a free agent in 2015, after spending two seasons with Grand Rapids Griffins of American Hockey League (AHL).
Almqvist won silver medal at World Championships 2014 as part of Sweden's national team and had an excellent tournament overall, averaging 24:21 minutes ice time over six games while scoring one goal and adding four assists.
At international level, he represented Sweden at 2010 IIHF World Junior Ice Hockey Championship where they reached gold medal game but lost to Russia 3-1; 2012 IIHF World Championship where Sweden finished fifth; and 2016 Olympic Games where Sweden again finished 5th place after being defeated by Canada in quarterfinals stage.
40. Darren Dietz
Darren Dietz is a defenceman who has played in the NHL with the Hamilton Bulldogs and Ottawa Senators. He was drafted by Ottawa in the fifth round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
After spending two seasons with Hamilton, he made his debut for Ottawa during the 2014-15 season. He recorded one goal and four assists in 38 games for Ottawa that season before being traded to Edmonton Oilers at the trade deadline on February 29th, 2015.
In 51 games for Edmonton, he notched five goals and 12 assists before being traded back to Ottawa at the 2017-18 trade deadline where he finished out his contract playing with Belleville Senators later that year . On July 1st, 2018 Darren signed as a free agent with KHL club HC Sochi.
Darren Dietz was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2013 NHL Draft. As a player for CSKA Moscow, Darren Dietz won two Russian Championships and a Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) Champion's Cup.
After playing three seasons with Montreal, he left to play with Barys Nur-Sultan of the Kazakhstan Premier League in 2016–17 season; however, they were relegated at the end of that year.
In 2018–19 season he signed with Kazakh side Astana Dragons before joining Barys again on loan until the end of 2019–20 season after failing to agree terms with Astana permanently.
41. Andrei Stas
Andrei Stas is a professional ice hockey player who currently plays for the HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). He was born in 1988 in Minsk, Belarus and began playing organized hockey at an early age with local clubs before moving to Russia to join the junior ranks of CSKA Moscow.
After two seasons with CSKA's junior team, he made his debut in Russian Professional Hockey League (RPL) play during the 2004-05 season with Lada Togliatti.
In 2007, he transferred to Atlant Mytishchi where he played until joining HC Sochi for their inaugural KHL season in 2012-13.
Andrei has spent most of his career as a centreman but has also seen action on the wing and at defence over his eleven-year NHL career which ended after four years with Pittsburgh Penguins organization following their Stanley Cup victory in 2016.
Andrei is married and has one child; daughter Anastasia born in 2018.
42. Eric O'Dell
Eric O'Dell is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who is currently playing with HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). O'Dell was drafted by the Dallas Stars in the first round, 24th overall, of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.
He made his NHL debut with them in 2009. After four seasons with Dallas, he moved to HC Sochi during the 2013–14 season.
In 2017-18, he helped Sochi win their fourth Russian Cup title and earned MVP honours as well as being named to both Russia's World Championship roster and their Olympic team for PyeongChang 2018.
O'Dell has also played for several other teams throughout his career including Anaheim Ducks (2011–12), Colorado Avalanche (2012–13), Toronto Maple Leafs (2013–14), Washington Capitals (2014–15) and Tampa Bay Lightning (2016-17).
He represented Canada at two Winter Olympics – 2010 in Vancouver and 2014 in Sochi – as well as five World Championships between 2008 and 2016; winning silver medals at both 2015 Worlds in Milan and 2017 Worlds in Helsinki while captaining Team Canada on three occasions over that period.
Eric O’Dell was born June 21st 1990 on Ottawa Ontario Canada into a family of athletes consisting of older sister Kelly who competed nationally level softball & brother Quinn who competes collegiately NCAA water polo at Brown University where he won All American honors twice.
Eric attended Notre Dame De Namur Secondary School before attending Northeastern University where he majored in Athletic Training Science graduating Cum Laude.
On July 1st 2019 it was announced by Columbus Blue Jackets General Manager Jarmo Kekalainen that Eric will be joining the organization pending waivers from HC Sochi.
43. Lars Johansson
Lars Johansson was born in Avesta, Sweden on July 11th 1987. He is 6'1" tall and weighs 198 pounds. Lars is a goaltender and currently plays for HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
In 2012-13 he played 43 games with Skellefteå AIK of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) where he had an 18-15-5 record with a 3.99 goals against average and a .898 save percentage.
He made his North American debut in October 2015 when he started one game for the AHL's Springfield Falcons and recorded a 2-0 shutout victory over Worcester Sharks to earn Player of The Week honors from AHL Live Media Group/The Hockey News magazine.
Lars also appeared in four playoff games with Springfield where he posted a 1-2 record, including two starts, before being swept by Albany Devils in the Calder Cup Final.
On September 22nd 2022 Lars will become only the sixth player ever to play 400 career NHL games as well as appearing in 200 KHL contests when HC Sochi hosts Barys Astana at Shayba Arena scheduled for 7:00pm local time / 10:00pm EST / 3:00am GMT.
44. Alexander Yeryomenko
Alexander Yeryomenko is a Russian professional ice hockey player. He was drafted in the fourth round, 110th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft.
In 2006-2007 he played for HC Sochi of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). On 25 July 2007, he signed with Edmonton Oilers as a free agent after being released from his contract with HC Sochi on 24 July 2007 On 5 January 2009.
Alexander Yeryomenko was traded to Calgary Flames along with Ladislav Smid and Jarome Iginla for Jay McClement, Gonzalo Curaçao and Ales Hemsky.
After two seasons in Calgary, Alexander Yeryomenko signed a one-year deal worth $700 000 with Metallurg Magnitogorsk of the Kontinental Hockey League on 15 August 2011. Last season he played for Atlant Moscow Oblast of the Russian Professional Ice Hockey League (RPIHL).
He won bronze medal at World Championships 2010 playing for Russia national men's ice hockey team together with Alexei Kasatonov , Dmitri Kulikov , Vladimir Mironov and Andrei Markov.
45. Damir Musin
Musin was born in Kazan, Russia on October 5th of 1994. He is a left-handed defender and played for HC Sochi of the KHL prior to coming to North America this season with the Toronto Marlies.
Musin has appeared in 21 games for the Marlies this season and scored one goal while providing six assists. Damir Musin is also eligible to play for Russia at the upcoming World Cup of Hockey as he holds dual citizenship with that country.
In addition to playing hockey, Musin also enjoys boxing and weightlifting as hobbies outside of professional hockey competition Musin is a highly-touted prospect who has been playing in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) for Admiral Vladivostok since 2014.
He made his NHL debut with HC Sochi in 2017, but was sent back to the KHL after just one game. In 2018–19, Musin played on loan with Ak Bars Kazan and had a breakout season offensively, scoring 26 goals and 52 points in 57 games.
The 21-year-old returned to Admiral Vladivostok for the 2019–20 campaign and has continued his impressive play, putting up 36 goals and 83 points through 66 games so far this season.
Musin’s skillset includes excellent skating ability as well as offensive instincts; he is considered a potential top six forward candidate at the next level if he can continue to develop his game further.
46. Stanislav Galimov
Stanislav Galimov is a goaltender for the Magnitogorsk KHL team. He played college hockey at Northeastern University and was drafted by the Avangard Omsk in the 2007 KHL Expansion Draft.
In 2013, he signed with HC Sochi of Russia's Vysshaya Liga but left after one season to join Magnitogorsk on a two-year contract extension. He has represented Russia at both World Junior Championships (2005, 2006) and World Championship (2009).
On April 1st, 2017, Stanislav Galimov made his NHL debut with the Colorado Avalanche against San Jose Sharks and stopped all 27 shots he faced in an overtime loss. After appearing in 15 games for Colorado during the 2017-2018 season.
Galimov was traded to Florida Panthers on February 26th, 2019 as part of a three-team deal that also involved Philadelphia Flyers and Vegas Golden Knights. Galimov finished fifth in voting for 2018 Vezina Trophy awarded to top goaltender in the NHL.
47. Brooks Macek
Brooks Macek is a centre for the Winnipeg Jets. Brooks started playing hockey at an early age and quickly became one of Canada's top prospects. In his first NHL season, Brooks recorded 16 goals and 25 assists in 80 games played with the Jets.
He was named to the All-Rookie Team following that campaign and has continued to produce offensively ever since then, recording over 100 points in each of the past three seasons alone.
Brooks is also known for his strong defensive play; he has been nominated for both the Selke Trophy (awarded to league’s best defender) and Lady Byng Memorial Trophy (given to player who demonstrates gentlemanly conduct on and off ice).
At 30 years old, Brooks is still young enough to continue developing as a player but has already established himself as one of the most consistent scorers in all of hockey.
48. Yegor Korshkov
Yegor Korshkov was born on July 10th, 1996 in Novosibirsk, Russia. He is 6'4" and weighs 214 lbs. He plays right wing for SKA Saint Petersburg of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
Yegor has 43 goals and 52 assists in 172 games played in his career to date. In March of 2019 he helped lead SKA to their first ever Gagarin Cup as champions of the KHL playoffs defeating HC Sochi 2-1 in the finals series finale game.
With an overtime goal from Vladimir Tarasenko giving him 1st place MVP honors along with team captain Denis Pushkarev who won 3rd place MVP award for his outstanding play throughout the playoffs leading Saint Petersburg to a championship title.
Yegor Korshkov was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2016 and has since played for their AHL affiliate, the Marlies. He is a left-shooting Russian forward who has spent most of his career playing in Russia.
Korshkov scored 31 goals and added 58 assists for 97 points in 128 regular season games with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl this past year. In seven playoff games he contributed one goal and three assists as Lokomotiv narrowly missed out on making it to the finals.
The 6'1", 192-pound winger has been described as an "effervescent" player with good speed and shooting ability who can create chances for himself or others offensively.
Final Words
. . The Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) is a professional ice hockey league that has been uniting play since its establishment in 2008. The league features some of the best players in the world, and many of these stars have won numerous awards over the years.
Some of the all-time greats to play in the KHL include Evgeni Malkin, Alexander Ovechkin, Pavel Datsyuk, Ilya Kovalchuk, and Henrik Zetterberg.
