BEIJING, CHINA - FEBRUARY 16: Goalkeeper Ivan Fedotov #28 of Team ROC reacts while leaving the rink after defeating Team Denmark 3-1 in the Men’s Ice Hockey Quarterfinal match between Team ROC and Team Denmark on Day 12 of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games at Wukesong Sports Centre on February 16, 2022 in Beijing, China. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Photo Credit: Elsa/Getty Images
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. 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 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
Last night 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 confirms a report that Russ Cohen put out a few hours earlier than my tweet in regards to what the General Manager said of CSKA.
It’s unlikely that Fedotov will play with the Flyers anytime soon, but he will remain under their control if/when he does decide to play in North America. At the end of the day at least Fedotov is safe, that’s the most important part.
A darn shame. Notice the wording? Play for CSKA for the rest of his career
We’ll never see him with Philly. But yes, at least he is safe.
If I was a NHL GM, I would never draft another Russian player.