Russian forward Maxim Shabanov signed a one-year, entry-level contract with the New York Islanders.
According to Vince Z. Mercogliano of USA Today the New York Rangers did make a push to bring Shabanov on board before he ultimately decided to sign with the Islanders.
Peter Baugh of The Athletic also reported that the Rangers were interested in Shabanov.
The finalists to land Shabanov were the Rangers, Islanders, Philadelphia Flyers, and Utah Mammoth, according to ESPN’s Kevin Weekes.
Despite standing at just 5-foot-8, 157 pounds, Shabanov’s explosive offensive abilities has made him a household name in the KHL and put NHL teams on notice.
This past season, the 24-year-old recorded 23 goals, 44 points, and 67 points in 65 games for Traktor Chelyabinsk.
He finished with the third-most points in the KHL during the 2024-25 season.