What happened: The Russian center returns to North America after spending the past eight seasons in the KHL. He last played on the continent with the Vancouver Canucks in 2017-18.
Why it matters: Once projected as a top prospect, he settled into a depth role before leaving the NHL. Cincinnati offers a route back through the ECHL for the 2026-27 season.
By the numbers: He recorded 37 goals and 64 assists in 348 NHL games, then produced 46 goals and 108 assists across 423 KHL games. His earlier AHL stint yielded 11 points in 22 games.
What to watch: His place in Cincinnati's forward group will come into focus before the 2026-27 ECHL season.