Radulov lands in Yaroslavl, Dinamo and Kunlun strengthen defense. Top transfers
KHL.ru presents the top transfers of last week, with Lokomotiv signing the veteran forward, Dinamo Minsk and Kunlun Red Star inking d-men, and Traktor adding its third import.
Alexander Radulov
From Ak Bars to Lokomotiv
Gagarin Cup’s runner-up didn’t lose time to strengthen its lineup signing the veteran forward to a one-year deal after he spent his latest couple of seasons in Kazan. Radulov, who is en route to 700 KHL career games, will bring experience and scoring ability to Lokomotiv, who sometimes lacked finishing skills in the playoffs.
“I believe that our team needs a player with a hunger for victory and skill. We met with him, talked, and I explained what I expect from him. He shared his story with me, how he views hockey and the team at his current age. In terms of hockey, we reached a mutual understanding, and then the club management negotiated the contract with him,” said Lokomotiv’s head coach Igor Nikitin commenting the signing.
Martin Lefebvre
From Assat Pori (Finland) to Kunlun Red Star
Martin Lefebvre, a skilled Canadian defenseman, is set to join Kunlun Red Star after an impressive season in the Finnish Liiga with Assat Pori. Last year, Lefebvre showcased his talent, contributing significantly with 27 points in 43 regular-season games. His offensive prowess and solid defensive play will be a valuable addition to Kunlun Red Star, enhancing the team’s blue line. Lefebvre’s experience and leadership are expected to play a crucial role in the upcoming season as the team strives for success in the competitive KHL landscape.
Ian McCoshen
From Bili Tygri Liberec (Czechia) to Kunlun Red Star
Kunlun Red Star’s defense will be further enhanced by Ian McCoshen. In the 2023-2024 season with Bili Tygri Liberec in Czechia, McCoshen’s presence was felt with 2 goals, 10 assists, and a +9 rating over 50 regular-season games. His defensive reliability and ability to contribute offensively will be very valuable to the Dragons. McCoshen’s experience in international play and his physical style are expected to bring a new dynamic to the team, potentially elevating their competitive edge in the league.
Josh Brook
From Lukko (Finland) to Dinamo Minsk
Dinamo Minsk also signed from Finland, inking d-man Josh Brook from Lukko. During the 2023-2024 campaign, the Canadian blueliner tallied 6 goals and 12 assists, contributing to a positive differential of 1 over 56 games. His move to Belarus is expected to bolster the team’s blue line with his offensive capabilities and sound defensive play. Brook’s agility and puck-moving skills will be key assets, enhancing the team’s transition game and fortifying their defense as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
Xavier Ouellet
From Wilkes-Barry (AHL) to Dinamo Minsk
Xavier Ouellet, the seasoned defenseman, is poised to make his mark with Dinamo Minsk of the KHL. In the 2023-2024 AHL season, Ouellet showcased his skills with 25 points (2 goals, 23 assists) and a +9 rating across 63 regular-season matches. He will bring to Dinamo Minsk’s lineup experience and skills, offering a solid presence on the back end. Ouellet’s vision and playmaking abilities, coupled with his defensive acumen, are expected to significantly contribute to the team’s performance, particularly in strengthening their defensive lineup and power play strategy in the upcoming season.
Dylan Sikura
From Skelleftea (SHL) to Traktor
Dylan Sikura, after a triumphant season with Skelleftea AIK, culminating in lifting the SHL trophy, is set to join Traktor. During the 2023-2024 SHL season, Sikura notched 26 points in 49 regular-season games, and added 9 points in 13 playoff matches. His offensive prowess and clutch playoff performance will be a boon for Traktor, as they look to Sikura to inject skill and scoring depth. His transition to the KHL represents a significant addition, promising to elevate Traktor’s offensive game and fortify their pursuit of championship success after last year’s exciting playoff rush.
