Maxim Berezkin’s dominant playoff run with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl has the towering power forward primed for North America as Edmonton seeks cost-effective depth to bolster their bottom six.
Edmonton Oilers prospect Maxim Berezkin has emerged as a potential off-season target after winning his second KHL Gagarin Cup championship with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl.
The 6-foot-4, 212-pound winger helped lead Lokomotiv to the KHL title, capping off a strong playoff run now that the league’s postseason has concluded. With his KHL commitments complete, speculation is growing that the Oilers could look to sign the big Russian forward in the coming weeks.
Is an entry-level deal on the way?
According to comments from Oilers Now host and plugged-in color analyst Bob Stauffer, Berezkin is represented by prominent agent Dan Milstein, and Edmonton may now pursue bringing the 23-year-old to North America.
Known for his size, physical presence, and two-way play, Berezkin has long been viewed as a promising depth prospect. He isn't likely to score much in the NHL, but there's a chance he could find another gear in terms of offensive production.
A second Gagarin Cup victory adds significant momentum to his case for an NHL opportunity.
The Oilers will be looking for cost-effective options as they try to improve their roster, but are aware that there likely isn't room to bring all of their pending UFA forwards back. Edmonton could view him as a strong candidate for a bottom-six role.
Berezkin brings size physicality, and versatility from Europe. While not a high-end scorer, he projects as a reliable third-line power forward who can contribute defensively and potentially develop into a net-front presence on the power play. After consistent production overseas and strong playoff performances, Berezkin may need time to adjust to the North American game.
No contract details have been confirmed, but Berezkin’s availability makes him one to watch this off-season.
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