Despite the Columbus Blue Jackets’ best efforts, Vladislav Gavrikov is staying in Russia for the time being. It had previously been reported that he’d signed a two-year contract, which will now belong to SKA St. Petersburg after being traded from Yaroslavl. Gavrikov listed the chance to play in the Olympics as part of his decision, as well as the development he still requires as a hockey player.
The Blue Jackets drafted Gavrikov 159th-overall in 2015, but have tried in vain to bring him over to North America this spring as he’s already shown a capability at the highest level. Two full years in the KHL and an impressive performance at the recent World Championships has Gavrikov considered one of the top Russian defenders in the world not playing in the NHL, and though he’s not much of an offensive presence could still provide some solid depth to the Blue Jackets blueline.
Still just 21 there is no risk of the Blue Jackets losing Gavrikov’s rights, but it is frustrating for them that he re-upped for two years. After SKA won the Gagarin Cup this season, they have quite a draw on young Russian players when promised a key role, and this time they won any recruitment battle. Now, Columbus will just have to wait and watch his development from afar, hoping he’ll reconsider in the spring of 2019. Watch out during the playoffs that season, as Gavrikov could make an immediate impact like Vladimir Sobotka did for the St. Louis Blues when he came over just before the postseason.
I bet another factor is that he would have to play for Columbus. If you are moving across the world, you’ll want the best possible scenario. The Blue Jackets are improving, no doubt, but they’re still the Blue Jackets that play in Columbus, OH. Their town is a college town, not a professional sports town. That team is a great candidate to move one of these years.
I bet you if he was in Toronto, New York, or any other teams organization, he’d still be playing in Russia. I could be wrong but I highly doubt he’s not coming over simply because he doesn’t want to play in Columbus.
I disagree. A good hockey town is attractive to all players. Especially ones moving across the planet.
The jackets arent leaving cbus.
Probably not anytime soon, but I doubt they are still there in 15-20 years.
They are not a good candidate to move. Far from it and now that they are a real playoff team with the best goalie in the league, they’re in for the long haul
Best goalie in the league? He’s good but come on man. He was smoked in round 1 of the playoffs. Matt Murray turned 23 in the finals, only goalie in history to begin career with 2 cups, and ended the finals with back to back shut outs. I know he hasn’t had a full season yet but to say anyone is better than him is just insane. Playoff performance is the true test and measuring stick for goalies.