Amir Miftakhov

March 2026 – Miftakhov signed with Carolina on a one-year deal after five KHL seasons with Ak Bars, where he consistently posted a GAA in the low 2.10s with save percentages above .920 while improving steadily over his last four years in Russia. The AHL transition hasn’t been seamless – 22 games, a 3.30 GAA and .887 save percentage with Chicago – but KHL-to-AHL adjustments for goaltenders are rarely linear, and he currently projects as first man up when and if Frederik Andersen misses time. His smaller frame may ultimately limit him to a backup role at the NHL level, but a consistent AHL starter with upside for spot duty above is a useful organizational piece on a one-year deal. Ryan Downey

July 2025 – The Hurricanes signed Miftakhov to a one-year contract ending in 2025-26. He’s coming over from the KHL most likely fitting in as the start for the Chicago Wolves in the AHL, with a regular opportunity to be called up to the NHL when Freddy Anderson eventually gets injured. Miftakhov has been consistently improving over the last four years while bouncing between the KHL and VHL, and he likely tops out as a backup at the NHL level if his smaller size doesn’t hold him back. Ioan Gheordanescu