A player’s path to the NHL is rarely a straight line. For most, it is filled with detours, obstacles, and a few steps backward. Of course, not all hockey players are destined for the National Hockey League. Yes, some lack the skill, intelligence, work ethic, or durability to make it. However, others may actually possess what it takes to compete for a roster spot legitimately, but their journey led them to an alternate destination. Enter Philadelphia Flyers goalie prospect Ivan Fedotov.
If you follow Flyers prospects at any capacity, you should be familiar with Fedotov’s name by now. Selected by Philadelphia in round seven of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Fedotov is making quite the reputation tending net in the KHL. In the early stages of his third season as a fixture in the league, Fedotov is off to a fantastic start with CSKA Moskva, allowing three goals through three games. Last year, he played 26 games for Traktor Chelyabinsk, averaging 2.21 goals-against with a .925 save percentage. The year prior, he recorded a 2.10 GAA and a .931 SV%.
At first glance, Ivan Fedotov appears like a goaltender ready to sign his entry-level contract and make the transition to North America. Unfortunately, this may never actually happen.
Ivan Fedotov and his NHL Likelihood
As I mentioned earlier, not all capable players are destined to play in the NHL. This statement rings even more true when dealing with Russian players. The KHL is one of the most highly-regarded leagues in professional hockey. Some may argue that it is right up there with the NHL. For some, especially Russian natives, playing in the KHL is equivalent to playing in the NHL, eliminating any urgency to play in North America.
Like Canadian and American-born players, most Russians also possess a sense of pride in playing in their home country. In some cases, getting the opportunity to play consistently in the KHL is the ultimate goal. Although playing in the NHL would be high on any young player’s dream list, one must consider that playing in the KHL comes with the same level of desire for some.
Of course, determining Ivan Fedotov views the KHL as the ultimate goal is pure speculation. The 24-year-old netminder has never come out and stated that playing in North America is completely out of the realm of possibility. However, one can put together the puzzle pieces and feel confident in that assumption.
Although he participated in Philadelphia’s 2016 developmental camp, Fedotov is not a regular at the event or any other Flyers-related camps, for that matter. Not only has he never played for a North American organization, but Fedotov has also only played in one international tournament. For him, hockey is played in Russia.
At the same time, Fedotov is up against some pretty stiff competition within the Flyers goalie prospect pool. For him, the hockey journey in North America might not end at the NHL. Leaving his current KHL situation for a ton of uncertainty in North America may lack the intrigue necessary to take the risk.
Temper Expectations
Whenever a young prospect displays a glimmer of success, we cannot help but imagine him in the NHL. Yes, Ivan Fedotov is showing signs of a promising career. Yes, there is no such thing as enough good goaltending. However, it just isn’t likely that Fedotov is coming any time soon.
Luckily, Philadelphia will continue to own his rights. If the NHL eventually becomes part of Fedotov’s plan, there is a strong chance that his transition to North America will include the Flyers system. For now, take all of those hopping on the Fedotov hype train with a grain of salt. You can still hope for his continued progression as a starting netminder. Just do so with the mindset that we will likely enjoy his talents from afar.
Follow me on Twitter @PodStreetGove
For more Flyers coverage, follow and subscribe to High & Wide Hockey on Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube!
Photo Courtesy of Goaliearchive.com
Discover more from HIGH AND WIDE HOCKEY
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.