Avs Prospect Manages to Get Out of KHL Contract to join the NHL

People in the hockey world are paying attention as Nikolai Kovalenko, a talented young Russian player, who decided to leave his team in the KHL and pursue a career in the NHL.

He was drafted by the Colorado Avalanche in the 6th round at the 2018 draft.

Andrei Kovalenko, his father, also played in Colorado in the 1990's.

Even though he ended his contract with the KHL, fans will need to wait to see Kovalenko in the NHL, as he plans to stay there another year, on loan.

Kovalenko did well last year in the KHL, scoring 21 goals and getting 54 points in 56 games. These numbers set the stage for him to aim even higher and make a name for himself in the NHL.

Looking ahead, Kovalenko's performance is similar to other KHL stars who later succeeded in the NHL. Given his potential, he could be a strong contender for a spot among Colorado's top six players when he starts playing in North America in the 2024-25 season.

What could this mean for other KHL players who'd like to join the NHL? In the past, players have struggled to get out of KHL contractual obligations, especially when they aim to play in the NHL.

As seen on Markerzone - Prospect Manages to Escape KHL Contract to Sign in the NHL