What happened: Former San Jose Sharks prospect Danil Gushchin has signed a two-year deal with Avtomoblist Yekaterinburg. The transaction follows his departure from the Colorado Avalanche, who declined to extend a qualifying offer this summer.
Why it matters: Gushchin leaves North America nearly a decade after joining the USHL ahead of the 2018-19 season. He spent his final year stateside playing exclusively at the AHL level before hitting the open market.
By the numbers: The forward compiled 70 goals and 150 points across 182 career AHL games with the San Jose Barracuda. He tallied two goals and five points in 18 NHL appearances for the Sharks.
What to watch: Gushchin joins his hometown team for the 2026-27 Kontinental Hockey League season.