The Minnesota Wild have come to terms with Marat Khusnutdinov, a promising 21-year-old Russian forward prospect whom former general manager Bill Guerin drafted in the second round of the 2020 NHL Draft.
Speculation had been brewing for weeks that Khusnutdinov might join the Wild after his KHL season concluded. However, uncertainty lingered regarding whether he would be granted an early release from his contract, which was set to run until April 30th.
Welcome to Minnesota, Marat! ✍️
We've signed forward Marat Khusnutdinov to a two-year, entry-level contract!
More » https://t.co/JnAUi2zUnZ #mnwild pic.twitter.com/YLjb4RJsCQ
— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) February 28, 2024
Khusnutdinov’s initial contract with the Wild spans two years, paying $925,000 annually. As reported by Michael Russo of The Athletic, his agents received official documentation from his KHL team on Wednesday morning, confirming the mutual termination of his contract.
When to expect Marat Khusnutdinov to play for Minnesota Wild
Once his VISA situation is resolved, the team intends to use up the first year of his two-year contract and have him join the Minnesota roster as soon as he arrives in the USA. They’ve even designated the number 22 jersey for him. The goal, unless any unexpected issues arise, is to test whether Marat can adapt to the NHL as a young player navigating a new country. Earlier this week, Russo reported that Khusnutdinov has been in regular communication with Kirill Kaprizov, suggesting a supportive relationship between the two.
Khusnutdinov in the KHL
In the 2023-24 season, Khusnutdinov showcased his skills in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) by playing 49 games with HK Sochi, where he accumulated 20 points (6 goals, 14 assists) and accrued 10 penalty minutes. Notably, he served as the team captain, ranking fifth in assists and seventh in points among his teammates. Khusnutdinov initially began the season with SKA St. Petersburg, participating in six games before being traded to HK Sochi on October 10.
In the preceding 2022-23 KHL season, Khusnutdinov had an impressive performance with SKA St. Petersburg, amassing 41 points (11 goals, 30 assists) in 63 games. He stood out as the second-highest in assists and sixth in goals on the team, also tying for seventh in overall points. Furthermore, he achieved a significant milestone by becoming the youngest player in SKA St. Petersburg’s history to reach 50 career points.
Great clip that shows the escapability, passing and hands of #mnwild prospect Marat Khusnutdinov. #SCH #KHL pic.twitter.com/vSs0F3EeQT
— Hockey News Hub (@HockeyNewsHub) February 28, 2024
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