SportsNet's Elliotte Friedman reported the Ducks are close to signing 2020 draft pick, Artyom Galimov
The Anaheim Ducks are reported to be close to signing former fifth-round pick (129th overall in 2020), Artyom Galimov, from Ak Bars Kazan of the KHL.
NHL's premier insider Elliotte Friedman of SportsNet reported on Friday during his "32 Thoughts" podcast that he keeps tabs on unsigned players throughout the league and he received a tip stating the Ducks would soon be signing Galimov.
"I always make lists of who needs to be signed or who hasn't signed or who are the guys on my radar, and someone sent me a note," Friedman said. "They said he's not the biggest name, but here's a guy who could be on your radar.
"He's having a really good year. He clearly hasn't left the Ducks' radar, and ultimately, he's decided it's time to give it a shot. His name is Artyom Galimov and I've heard he's going to be signing with the Ducks pretty soon."
Galimov (25) was selected by the Ducks after his third draft-eligible season, following a 2019-20 campaign (his first full season in the KHL) where he scored 13 goals and 23 points in 55 games. He added three assists in four playoff games.
He hadn't again matched that output in the four seasons to follow, totaling 62 points in 202 games and 12 points in 47 playoff games.
This season, Galimov is in the midst of a breakout having scored 22 goals and 19 assists for 41 points in 46 games for Ak Bars Kazan. He's second on his team in scoring and eighth in the KHL. Ak Bars Kazan is currently in third place in the KHL standings.
Standing at a listed 5-foot-11 and 176 pounds, the Russian center is no stranger to a highlight reel, displaying supreme puck skills and a nose for the net. He's been featured on his team's top penalty kill unit this season, which has led to several shorthanded goals.
The Ak Bars Kazan season runs through March 22 with playoffs to follow. If the Ducks sign him, as reported, he will likely join the team for the 2025-26 campaign.
Ducks Coaching Staff Searching for Ways to Produce Offense Without Sacrificing Defense
Zegras not on Road Trip, Imminent Return could Spark Offense