JUST IN: Ilya Nabokov Signs Two-Year Entry-Level Contract with Colorado Avalanche
The Colorado Avalanche have added a promising talent to their goaltending depth, signing Russian netminder Ilya Nabokov to a two-year, entry-level contract. The deal, announced by the team on Thursday, marks the first NHL step for the 21-year-old goalie who has steadily risen through the ranks in Russia’s Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
Nabokov, originally selected by the Avalanche in the 2021 NHL Draft (6th round, 184th overall), has been one of the standout young goaltenders in the KHL over the past two seasons. Playing for Metallurg Magnitogorsk, he posted impressive numbers in 2024–25, including a .930 save percentage and a 2.12 goals-against average in 38 games. His performance was instrumental in Metallurg’s deep playoff run, and he gained recognition as one of the league’s top young goaltenders.
“We’re excited to officially bring Ilya into our organization,” said Avalanche General Manager Chris MacFarland in a press release. “He’s a technically sound and mentally tough goaltender who has shown he can perform under pressure. We believe he has a bright future with our team.”
At 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds, Nabokov is known for his quick reflexes, calm demeanor in the crease, and ability to track pucks through traffic. His development in the KHL has drawn comparisons to other successful Russian goalies who transitioned effectively into the NHL.
The signing comes at a time when the Avalanche are looking to bolster their goaltending pipeline. With starter Alexandar Georgiev under contract and prospect Justus Annunen making strides, Nabokov adds further competition and depth to the Avalanche’s crease, possibly setting the stage for a dynamic goaltending tandem in the future.
Nabokov is expected to attend the Avalanche’s rookie and training camps later this summer, where he will get his first taste of North American hockey. While he may begin his NHL journey with the Colorado Eagles in the AHL, his path to the NHL appears promising.
“Ilya has shown remarkable growth and dedication in his career so far,” said Avalanche Director of European Scouting, Tomas Martinec. “We’ve been watching him closely and are confident he’s ready to take the next step.”
With the signing now official, Avalanche fans can look forward to seeing one of Russia’s top young goaltending prospects don the burgundy and blue in the near future.