As we approach the end of the KHL season, it’s a good time to examine the top unsigned Russian prospects and their performance to date. These players have excelled in Russia’s top league and will be prime candidates to sign their first NHL contracts in the next two seasons.

Ivan Demidov – Montreal Canadiens

Demidov is one of the best prospects currently outside of North America. He has dominated his first full KHL campaign with 49 points in 62 games. Demidov makes plays look effortless, boasting elite puck control and exploiting every opening that defenders provide. His domination early in the season came in relatively little ice time, although SKA dramatically increased it as the season progressed.

Demidov utilizes his elite skill set at a controlled, not reckless, pace. He elevates the play of his teammates and has a more patient approach that should benefit him at the NHL level. Demidov has turned down multiple contract offers from SKA and wants to come to North America as soon as possible. He is sure to make an impact in the NHL, potentially as soon as next season.

Alexander Nikishin – Carolina Hurricanes

Of Carolina’s many Russian prospects, Nikishin stands head and heels above the rest. Through 59 games, Nikishin has 17 goals and 46 points for SKA St. Petersburg and is consistently the best defender on the ice. The big defenseman uses his size and skating effectively on both sides of the ice. He creates offense but jams the opposition and seals off rushes with his body.

Many of Nikishin’s attributes should translate well to the NHL, particularly defensively. His big stature and ability to disrupt an offensive push will be a nightmare for NHL forwards. Offensively, his skating and playmaking ability will give the Hurricanes a lot to like from the back end. GM Eric Tulsky has clarified that the club intends to sign Nikishin after the KHL season ends, so it will not be long before Nikishin is in Carolina.

Roman Kantserov – Chicago Blackhawks

Despite missing the first of Metallurg’s season, Kantserov has produced at a high level. He has 35 points in 44 games and sits third in scoring for Metallurg. Additionally, he is putting up high point totals in relatively limited minutes. In his last eight games, Kantersov has registered seven
points while averaging around 16 minutes per game.

Kantersov is a highly skilled player. He has lightning-quick hands and utilizes great on-ice vision to make plays for his teammates. His skill set has the potential to fit in well with the Blackhawks forward group. However, Kantserov is still under contract until after the 2025-26 season, meaning Hawks fans must wait at least one more year before he can join the roster. He should be well worth the wait.

Nikita Artamonov – Carolina Hurricanes

The second Hurricanes prospect on this list, Artamonov got off to a red-hot start to the season before stalling out a bit. He has begun to produce late, bringing his point total to 39 in 61 games. He also has 22 goals. His feel for the game and strong all-around play made up for his lack of production during the season, showing his complete skill set.

Artamonov’s contract ends after the 2025-26 season, meaning Hurricanes fans must wait another year before he joins the club. Canes fans have a lot to look forward to whenever he does sign.

Thank you for reading. Follow me on X @norr028