The submit Vitali Kravtsov Returning to KHL: A Closer Look at His Career Path appeared first on NHL Trade Talk.
A current report by way of Russian outlet Championat notes that 23-year-old winger Vitali Kravtsov was anticipated to signal a two-year deal to return to Traktor Chelyabinsk within the KHL for the 2023-24 season. In an replace that adopted on Tuesday, the information is that he has formally signed, per his now-former agent Dan Milstein. Kravtsov has switched illustration as a part of the deal.
Kravtsov’s journey in skilled hockey has been marked by ups and downs, with stints in each the NHL and KHL. A participant with a excessive potential ceiling, has dimension, good arms, and imaginative and prescient, and was fairly good alongside the wall, even displaying promise defensively. But, he appears to suppose he’ll be higher off outdoors the NHL.
The Canucks will doubtlessly nonetheless maintain his rights and might qualify him as a restricted free agent. But, if he doesn’t return, it’s onerous to argue his run was something greater than a misstep by two organizations.
After profitable Rookie of the Year honors within the KHL, Kravtsov caught the eye of the New York Rangers who drafted him in 2018. The franchise positioned excessive expectations upon him having been thought of a high Russian-born junior participant however Kravtsov confronted challenges in transitioning to the NHL.
He made his debut within the 2020-21 season however solely managed 4 factors in restricted ice time. As a consequence, he was despatched again to Traktor, the place he struggled to discover his scoring contact. He confirmed enchancment with 13 factors in 19 video games and returned to the NHL, however couldn’t get into full-time obligation with the Rangers. In a transfer to create cap area for the New York Rangers, Kravtsov was traded to the Vancouver Canucks earlier than the NHL commerce deadline in 2022-23. The hope in Vancouver was that he would show himself alongside high quality linemates. Still, his manufacturing remained modest, scoring only one purpose and including an help for a complete of two factors in 16 video games.
Kravtsov Going Back to the KHL
Following restricted success within the NHL, Kravtsov has chosen to return to the KHL for the following two seasons. This resolution permits him to proceed growing his expertise in a well-recognized setting and regain his confidence on the ice. Additionally, the Vancouver Canucks nonetheless maintain his rights and might qualify him as a restricted free agent, doubtlessly retaining him past his KHL stint.
Kravtsov’s hockey journey has been a rollercoaster experience, stuffed with expectations, setbacks, and failed alternatives. While he has but to set up himself as a constant NHL participant, he could possibly be again within the league down the road. Having stated that, two failed makes an attempt to cement a spot on an NHL roster means there aren’t any ensures.
Next: Kyle Dubas Addresses Exit from Maple Leafs in Curious Statement
The submit Vitali Kravtsov Returning to KHL: A Closer Look at His Career Path appeared first on NHL Trade Talk.
