Vladislav Gavrikov was a much talked about prospect that many, including myself, thought would be a bottom pairing defenseman for the CBJ this season. Alas, the Russian defender will not be joining the Columbus Blue Jackets this season.
The 21-year-old shut down man has signed a two year contract with St. Petersberg. Gavrikov will join the KHL power after two years with Yaroslavl.
This is certainly disappointing news for the Jackets front office and fans. Many thought that Gavrikov would be coming to the NHL soon as news recently came out that he was in the process of acquiring a work visa.