Amidst ongoing debates about the eligibility of Russian players in the NHL, since the conflict with Ukraine started, the NHL has maintained its stance against implementing location-based bans. Nevertheless, recent developments from Russia have raised concerns for Russian players wanting to play in the NHL.
New Rule Forces Russian Prospects to Play in the KHL Before Joining the NHL
Over the holiday season, news emerged from Russia, revealing that President Vladimir Putin had issued an official directive.
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This directive imposes hockey players to complete a minimum number of seasons in the Russian league before joining other leagues.
Of note to NHL prospects with KHL clubs:
Shumi Babaev mentions via MatchTV:
"We have an order from the President, according to which young players should stay here - in Russia."
They have been working on rules to not allow players to go abroad before a set amount of time.
This new directive is a major setback for NHL prospects playing in the KHL.
Also, it could convince NHL teams to pass on Russian players at drafts.
Do you think the NHL should bring all drafted players to North America to avoid Russia's rules?
As read on House of Hockey -
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