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Ivan Fedotov was named to Team Russia for the Olympics in Beijing two weeks ago, in what could be seen as some positivity for an organization that needed it. Although, the big club is struggling, there are some young prospects that are flourishing, and none more than Fedotov.
In two Olympic games, Fedotov has made 49 saves and has earned two shutouts following a 2-0 victory over Denmark last night. It has taken two games for Fedotov to impress the Flyers proud faithful with two remarkable performances for Russia.
It is very likely that Fedotov would skip the AHL to play in the NHL next season, if the Flyers are able to sway him to come to North America. Most teams, to include the Flyers, would approve of this and he could easily be a backup for the prized Carter Hart next season. He’s arguably playing well in the second best league in the World (KHL), but temper the expectations on Fedotov, as the orange and black would love to have his services here in North America. However, Fedotov at the moment does not want to leave Russia, although he has not closed the door on playing in North America.
This towering prospect in Fedotov stands at 6’8 and weighs 203 pounds. Since being drafted by the Flyers; the now 25-year-old Fedotov has made his way up the ranks in Russia. He is now playing in the KHL (Kontinental Hockey League), which is not only Russia’s top league, but it’s arguably the second toughest league in the World. This season Fedotov has spent time with CSKA Moscow and he has posted a 14-10-2 record, a 2.00 GAA (Goals Against Average), with a .919 SV% (Save Percentage). Moreover, Fedotov also is credited with two shutouts. Simply put, he is kicking butt, and deserves this honor to be play for his home country of Russia in the Olympics.
The young 25-year-old in Fedotov has made quite the name for himself in his native country. Flyers fans should temper their expectations with Fedotov, as it is easier said than done to sway him to come to North America. Fedotov would have to leave his family and friends behind, also he is excelling in the KHL.
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In the end, the Flyers are in desperate need of a sniper, however, teams also need a quality netminder to win a championship. Fedotov is off to a stellar start to his career in the KHL, and hopefully this will bear fruit in the future for the orange and black in North America sooner rather than later.
