Former Sharks first-rounder looking toward North American return

It’s fair to say that Nikolay Goldobin’s first stint in North America didn’t go according to plan, which resulted in him heading home in 2020.  However, it appears he would like to take one more crack at trying to play at the top level, as Sport-Express’ Mikhail Zislis relays that the winger has declined to sign a new deal with Metallurg of the KHL in order to pursue a contract in North America.

The 27-year-old was a first-round pick by the San Jose Sharks back in 2014 (27th overall) following a pair of strong seasons offensively with Sarnia of the OHL.  That offensive success did not translate to the pros, though. Goldobin was limited to 19 goals and 27 assists in 125 NHL games over parts of five seasons between San Jose and Vancouver, with the Canucks acquiring him prior to the 2017 trade deadline.  Goldobin fared a bit better at the AHL level, where he posted 50 points in 51 games during his final season in 2019-20. It only earned him a single NHL appearance with a non-tender coming that offseason.

Over the past three seasons, Goldobin has played in the KHL -- first with CSKA Moscow and then with Metallurg, who acquired him in late 2020.  He is coming off a decent showing in the regular season, finishing third on the team in scoring with 19 goals and 17 assists in 59 games. He proved unable to carry over that performance to the playoffs, where he was limited to just two tallies in 11 postseason contests.  Over his three years in the KHL, Goldobin had 41 goals and 53 assists in 141 games.

Considering how long Goldobin has been away from North America and his level of production in the KHL, it is hard to envision him receiving a one-way NHL contract.  Instead, if he is looking to shift leagues, he will likely have to settle for a two-way deal with the hopes that he can start strong in the minors and work his way back up to the top level if he is to see his first NHL action since late November, 2019.