Photo Credit: CSKA
A towering prospect in Ivan Fedotov stands at 6’8 and weighs 203 pounds. He was found by former Flyers General Manager Ron Hextall in the 7th round of the 2015 NHL Draft. Since being drafted by the Flyers; the now 25-year-old Fedotov made his way up the ranks in Russia. He was 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. Fedotov spent time with CSKA Moscow in his final season to date in the KHL where he posted a 14-10-2 record, a 2.00 GAA (Goals Against Average), with a .919 SV% (Save Percentage). Moreover, Fedotov was also credited with two shutouts. Simply put, he kicked butt, and deserved the honor to play for his home country of Russia in the Olympics.
Fedotov made quite the name for himself in his native country, thus he earned an Entry-Level-Contract (ELC) for his efforts last year from Philadelphia. Flyers fans should temper their expectations with Fedotov, as it is easier said than done to sway him to come to North America, especially with him having to partake in the Russian military.
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The Flyers became aware of promising 6’8 netminder in Ivan Fedotov being detained in St. Petersburg, according to reports last year. Reports were he tried to evade being drafted into the Russian military to possibly be used in the war against Ukraine.
“We’re aware of the reports and are investigating the situation. We have no further comment at this time.” – Flyers former General Manager Chuck Fletcher
A few months ago, I received confirmation that CSKA President Igor Esmantovich said that Ivan Fedotov will return to CSKA, and they are ready to take him back. This confirmed a report that Russ Cohen originally put out a few hours earlier than my tweet in regards to what the General Manager said of CSKA.
Fedotov is now assigned to CSKA, and also he has been assigned to CSKA’s roster. The Flyers did put in a request that stated Ivan Fedotov’s contract was valid with the Flyers. Luc Tardif, the President of the IIHF ruled in favor of the Flyers about a month ago and stated:
“Fedotov has been given a four month suspension on playing in official national and international games during playing periods Sept 1, 2023-December 31, 2023.” In addition, CSKA has been given a one season ban on International transfers taking effect on 11 August 2023 and concluding on 10 August 2024. Here is the full article below.
https://www.iihf.com/en/news/54170/iihf_sanctions_ivan_fedotov_and_cska_hockey_club
No official statement has been given from the Flyers on Ivan Fedotov. However, the situation remains fluid, and still there are many questions as CSKA will appeal this decision. Questions as to if Ivan Fedotov actually wants to play in North America now, and when can he start to play. He actually could start playing the in the NHL as early as today barring last minute changes, per a report. Unfortunately, he did play for CSKA today and allowed five goals, while saving 33 shots in his first regular season/playoff game in 489 days in the 5-2 loss. I say unfortunately because he will not play for Philadelphia it appears, rather both CSKA and the KHL defied the IIHF ruling.
What will happen in the future is anyone’s guess, but this situation remains fluid.
