Massive career update on Avalanche's top goalie prospect could change everything
Photo credit: Mile High Hockey
A massive new update on Colorado Avalanche's top goalie prospect Ilya Nabokov has surfaced, and it could completely reshape the team's future in net.
Nabokov has already displayed plenty of skill and poise in the KHL, and the Avalanche rewarded him back in May with a two-year, $1.95 million entry-level contract, betting on the smaller but highly athletic goaltender to develop into a key piece of their future.
Ilya Nabokov hit with massive career update.
Adrian Hernandez from Mile High Hockey writes that it's no secret that the Avalanche have already committed to Mackenzie Blackwood, who was acquired in a trade on December 9, 2024, and later signed to a five-year, $26.25 million extension.
With Blackwood entrenched as the starter, Nabokov's immediate future likely won't be in the No. 1 role. However, the backup spot could open as soon as next season, with current G2 Scott Wedgewood entering the final year of his contract. That scenario could provide Nabokov with a clear path to NHL ice time much sooner than expected.
"It would also be smart to get Nabokov rolling under a veteran like Blackwood, who could help usher in Nabokov's days as an NHL starter. I would not be at all surprised if Nabokov is, in fact, the Starting goalie for the Colorado Avalanche one day. If indeed the backup role is up for grabs this time next year, we should get our first honest look at Ilya Nabokov in North America and in burgundy and blue." -Hernandez
KHL hockey is often played with a looser defensive structure than what goaltenders face in the NHL, which has given Nabokov plenty of chances to showcase both the essential stops and the highlight-reel saves.
His lateral quickness allows him to move side to side with ease, while exceptional hand-eye coordination stands out as one of his biggest strengths. Perhaps most importantly, Nabokov has already proven capable of stepping up in the big moments, having won several massive games at the professional level in the KHL, experience that should serve him well as he transitions to North America.
"I think it's often understated how seriously the KHL is taken in Russia, and to lead your team to the Gagarin Cup as a netminder is nothing to scoff at. Add to that rookie of the year and playoff MVP, and you begin to understand why fans are anxious to see what the kid can do." -Hernandez
Even in a time when the Avalanche don't have many prospects to rave about, it's reassuring to know that Nabokov appears to be the real deal.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 6 | 18 ANSWERS Massive career update on Avalanche's top goalie prospect could change everything Do you think Nabokov will be an NHL starter in the future? | ||
| yes | 14 | 77.8 % |
| no | 4 | 22.2 % |
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