Exodus to the East: NHL stars make unexpected transfer to the KHL

CSKA Moscow, a dominant force in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), is undergoing a significant transformation under the leadership of Head Coach Sergei Federov.

The team has been aggressive in recruiting talent, luring several notable former NHL players back to Russia, signaling a robust strategy to reclaim the prestigious Gagarin Cup.

Ruslan Ishkakhov, previously with the New York Islanders, and Nikita Ohkhotyuk, formerly of the Calgary Flames, are among the latest acquisitions.

Ishkakhov's stint in the NHL was brief, limited by his smaller stature at 5'8", which resulted in just one NHL game where he registered a single point.

In contrast, Ohkhotyuk had a more extensive NHL experience, participating in 67 games across teams like the New Jersey Devils, San Jose Sharks, and Flames, amassing 12 points through 3 goals and 9 assists.

Adding to the list, Egor Afanasyev, recently traded to the Sharks, decided to shift to the KHL without pursuing opportunities in San Jose.

His brief NHL career included 19 games, yielding just one goal. Similarly, Dmitri Samorukov, who struggled to find his footing in North America with only three NHL appearances, joined CSKA Moscow, eager for a fresh start after an unremarkable stint in the West.

Denis Gurianov and Alexander Barabonov also made the move to CSKA Moscow. Gurianov, a seasoned NHL player, and Barabonov, who experienced a stark dip in performance from a 47-point season to just 13 points in the following year, sought new challenges in their home country.

Barabonov's departure followed a trade request that saw teammate Tomas Hertl moved to the Vegas Golden Knights instead of him.

This influx of seasoned players not only enriches CSKA's roster but also significantly boosts their chances in the upcoming KHL seasons.

The strategic recruitment led by Federov indicates a clear focus on combining experienced international talent with the robust framework of Russian hockey, making CSKA Moscow a team to watch in the race for the Gagarin Cup.

Source: Marker Zone
Several Russian NHL players abandon the NHL to join CSKA Moscow of KHL