After a turbulent debut plagued by injuries and inconsistent ice time, Maxim Shabanov heads to free agency as the former KHL standout weighs an NHL return versus Russia.
The New York Islanders have opted to not extend a qualifying offer to Russian winger Maxim Shabanov. The decision means the 25 year old will hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent on July 1.
Shabanov came to North America last summer as one of the most highly coveted European free agents. He signed a one-year entry-level deal with the Islanders after dominating the KHL with Traktor Chelyabinsk with 67 points in 65 games.
His first year in the NHL turned out to be a bit of a rollercoaster.
Shabanov struggled with injuries early in the season and found it tough to secure consistent ice time once he returned to health. Shabanov still managed to put up five goals and 13 assists for 18 points in 44 games. Obviously, not the number he was putting up in Russia, which is a big reason as to why he was left unqualified.
Now, with the market set to open on July 1, there may be a team that takes a chance on him in the NHL. However, we've seen this movie before; he will likely head back to Russia and sign with the KHL. With Traktor Chelyabinsk likely being the top landing spot for him.
