Contrary to reports, Flyers have not been in pursuit of KHL star Maxim Shabanov, per Shabanov’s agency

February 2, 2025

Div Kharlamova Hockey Club player, Maxim Shabanov (49) seen in action during the KHL All-Star Game for the third place in between Div. Tarasova and Div. Kharlamova at the SKA Arena. (Final score; Div Bobrova 7:8 Div. Kharlamova) (Photo by Maksim Konstantinov / SOPA Images/Sipa USA) (Sipa via AP Images)

Each spring, NHL front offices turn their gaze east.
While the NHL entry draft is the most straightforward way to bring players into the organization who have a high likelihood of one day playing a major role on a team, it's not the only way.
Teams have invested heavily in European pro scouting, trying to get players who can step in right away and contribute to their team, with the only cost being the contract dollars. Every summer, 50 or so players who either went undrafted or had their rights expire are brought in by NHL teams from Europe. It is a free agent frenzy of its own kind, with teams fighting over the top few names who might just be able to step into a major role the coming year....