The New York Islanders have secured the services of highly sought-after KHL free agent, Maxim Shabanov.
The team made the official announcement on Wednesday, confirming they have signed Shabanov to a one-year, entry-level contract.
Last season, the 24-year-old forward had a career-best performance with Traktor Chelyabinsk in the KHL. He recorded 67 points, scoring 23 goals and adding 44 assists over 65 games. His performance set new personal highs in points, assists, and achieved a notable plus-minus rating of plus-17.
Shabanov maintained his excellent form into the playoffs, contributing 20 points (10 goals, 10 assists) in 21 games. His efforts helped Traktor reach the Gagarin Cup Final. He was a standout player in the KHL playoffs, leading in both goals scored and plus-minus with a rating of plus-14.
Throughout his KHL career with Traktor, Shabanov has played 207 regular-season games, accumulating a total of 150 points from 67 goals and 83 assists.
In 36 career KHL playoff appearances, he has added 31 points, consisting of 13 goals and 18 assists.
