Starting out strong. Week 1 top imports
Import defensemen start strong for their team as the KHL 2024-2025 season is underway. KHL.ru presents the best international players from each country.
United States
D, Avtomobilist
2 G, 3 (2+1) points, +2
For the second time in his career, Nick Ebert of Avtomobilist was named the Best Defenseman of the Week, highlighting his consistent impact on the ice. The US native registered 3 points (2 goals, 1 assist) and maintained an impressive plus-2 rating across two games last week. His standout performance came on Wednesday in Avtomobilist’s narrow 3:2 victory over Traktor, where he potted the game-winner.
Ebert’s contribution goes beyond just individual statistics. His ability to influence both ends of the rink makes him a vital asset for Avtomobilist, especially as they aim to replicate last year’s strong playoff run. With Ebert playing a key role once again, the team is well-positioned to push even further this year.
Sweden
D, Metallurg
3 G, 3 (1+2) points, +2
The Swedish d-man had a fantastic game against SKA last week, when Metallurg compiled a 5:4 win – the only one for Magnitka so far this season. Press had one goal and two assists that night, with a plus-2 rating. He only posted point in that game, but he otherwise had an even rating in the other two matches, despite Metallurg losing both contests, to Lokomotiv and Neftekhimik, respectively.
Press continues to be a key player for Metallurg, eating up big minutes on the blue line and anchoring the defensive zone as the Andrei Razin’s team vies for a second Gagarin Cup triumph despite its rocky start this season.
Slovakia
D, Lokomotiv
2 G, 2 (0+2) points, +1
The Slovak defenseman was busy of late, as he helped Team Slovakia reserving a spot at the 2026 Olympics, and then he returned for the KHL start. He first helped Lokomotiv winning the Opening Cup game against Metallurg (3:2), then he contributed to the Railwaymen’s victory over Lada on Thursday (3:0). In both games, the Slovak blueline posted a helper for Lokomotiv.
Gernat, at his second year in the league, is currently an alternate captain for the Yaroslavl side, and one of its key men. His ability to play the puck and eat up minutes has been critical for Lokomotiv, and his role will likely only increase as the season unfolds.
Canada
F, Salavat Yulaev
2 G, 3 (1+2) points, +3
The Canadian forward has been instrumental in Salavat Yulaev’s early success, helping the Ufa franchise achieving two wins in its first two games this season. Leivo posted a pair of assists when Salavat Yulaev won the first Green Derby of the year (5:3), then had the lone regulation goal for the Ufa’s team in the 2:1 SO win over Traktor.
The 31-years-old forward will be much needed by Viktor Kozlov as Salavat Yulaev will want to go deeper in the elimination stage after two disappointing first-round exits.
