There's been no shortage of Russian interest from the NY Islanders over the last two off-seasons, with Director of European Pro/College Free Agent Scouting Jim Paliafito spearheading the effort.
Paliafito, who has been known to attract some of the KHL's top players during his time with the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Islanders, was able to land the top Russian free agent in 2024, Max Tsyplakov, and in 2025, Maxim Shabanov.
Expect more goals from Tsyplakov
Tsyplakov, who will be 27 at the start of his second NHL season, began his rookie campaign with a bang.