Maxim Berezkin has snubbed an NHL move to sign a two-year extension with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, forcing the Oilers to wait on their high-upside, power-forward prospect's North American debut.
Edmonton Oilers prospect Maxim Berezkin will not be making the jump to North America just yet. According to multiple reports, including reported confirmation from his agent Stanislav Romanov, the 24-year-old forward has opted to remain in the KHL, signing a two-year extension with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl.
Daria Tuboltseva of Sportsru was the first to break the story.
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The decision comes after Berezkin played a key role in helping Lokomotiv capture back-to-back Gagarin Cup championships. It had been widely expected that the Oilers’ 2020 fifth-round pick would pursue an NHL contract this offseason. That makes his sudden pivot and choice to stay overseas a notable development.
Berezkin brings an intriguing mix of size and skill. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing over 200 pounds, he plays a heavy game but is known more for his playmaking ability than his scoring touch. He recorded 32 points in 64 games this past season and has consistently posted strong underlying numbers, including positive goal differentials at even strength.
While the added experience in the KHL could further refine his game, the delay also pushes back his potential NHL arrival. For Edmonton, it means waiting longer to evaluate whether Berezkin can translate his success into a middle-six role at the NHL level.
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