Colorado Avalanche Top Prospect: Its my last real chance to make it in the NHL
Photo credit: Colorado Hockey Now
Former SKA and KHL winger Zakhar Bardakov is headed to Colorado, as GM Chris McFarland has made him a member of the Avalanche organization, signing him to an ELC. The Russian hockey star has clearly stated this is his last shot at making it in the NHL.
GM Chris McFarland of the Colorado Avalanche wasted no time signing former SKA St. Petersburg center Zakhar Bardakov to a one-year ELC.
He becomes the first rookie McFarland has signed for the 2025-2026 NHL season, and his statement lacked no pretense; he's here to earn a spot on the roster.
Bardakov told RG in an interview. «At my age, it's probably my last real chance to make it to the NHL. Colorado has salary cap issues, which means there's a genuine opportunity for me to earn a spot. So, why not give it a try?»
Bardakov, 24, has come off a career-year with the SKA St. Petersburg club in the KHL, scoring 35 points (17 goals, 18 assists) in 53 games. He'd finish the regular season with a +20 and add 2 more points in six playoff games.
He'll have a real shot at making the Avalanche roster, due to a clause that would allow him to return to the KHL instead of playing significant time in the AHL with the Eagles.
«I always adapt my style based on what the coach asks and who my linemates are. If it's necessary to battle physically, I'll do it. But if my linemates are good playmakers, why not play some creative hockey? Previously, I was more emotional, but I've changed my attitude. I still have flaws, but I try not to let them hurt the team. I try to avoid emotional penalties.»
A huge demand for a rookie who's a fourth-liner. But the Avalanche could use someone like him on the third line, a PK specialist, and a player who drives to the net and creates offense.
It should be clarified that he could've made the jump two years ago into the New Jersey Devils system, but he felt uncomfortable due to his lack of readiness.
Now he'll prepare for his trip to Denver with SKA and make the flight to his new home in Colorado in July, family in tow.
Previously on Avalanche Insider
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 21 | 10 ANSWERS Colorado Avalanche Top Prospect: Its my last real chance to make it in the NHL Do you think forward Zakhar Bardakov will be a great third-line player for the Colorado Avalanche? | ||
| Yes | 8 | 80 % |
| No | 2 | 20 % |
| List of polls | ||
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