The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly interested in one of the KHL’s top young talents, although signing him would require significant salary cap adjustments. According to an exclusive report by Ethan Sears of the New York Post, the Maple Leafs, alongside the Islanders, Nashville Predators, and Utah Hockey Club, have expressed early interest in 24-year-old Russian forward Maxim Shabanov from Traktor Chelyabinsk. Shabanov, known for his versatility at both center and right wing, had a breakout KHL season last year with 25 goals and 25 assists, totaling 50 points in 64 games. He has continued his impressive form this season, tallying 17 points (7 goals, 10 assists) in just 14 games as of October 13.
Despite the buzz surrounding him, no official meetings with NHL teams have taken place, and no scouts have traveled to Russia to watch him play in person, per Sears’ report. Shabanov’s career stats in the KHL, regarded as the top hockey league outside the NHL, include 51 goals and 49 assists in 156 games. However, at 5’8″ and 156 pounds, his smaller stature may pose a challenge for transitioning to the NHL, especially at age 24 when there may be limited potential for physical development.
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