Feb 25, 2021; Buffalo, New York, USA; New Jersey Devils left wing Nikita Gusev (97) takes a shot on goal during the first period against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
There was a lot of anticipation and, to an extent, expectations surrounding Nikita Gusev’s NHL debut. Same can be said, for former Montreal Canadiens prospect Alex Galchenyuk. Yet, inexplicably, both players now find themselves in similar situations, still unsigned as the dust surrounding the 2021 offseason has settled for the time being.
Going into the 2019-20 season, there was reason to be excited about Gusev’s migration to the NHL after months, if not years of speculation.