Maxim Shabanov, a 24-year-old Russian forward, is gaining attention following his signing with the New York Islanders. The former Traktor Chelyabinsk player is making the leap from the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) to the National Hockey League (NHL), and early signs suggest he could be one of the most underrated pick-ups of the offseason. With impressive numbers and a dynamic style of play, Shabanov may prove to be more than just a low-risk signing.
Shabanov's KHL Career in Focus
Shabanov, born in Chelyabinsk, Russia, played three full seasons with Traktor Chelyabinsk in the KHL. Though standing at just 5'8" and weighing 157 lbs, he carved out a reputation for quick acceleration, slick puck-handling, and creative playmaking.
According to Sportsnet, over his 207 KHL games, Shabanov totalled 150 points, including 67 goals and 83 assists. His performance earned him back-to-back selections to the KHL All-Star Game in 2023 and 2025, highlighting his consistent growth.
He was particularly effective during high-pressure situations, leading the 2025 KHL playoffs with 10 goals and positioning himself as a go-to scorer for his team. Despite limited physical size, Shabanov's ability to read the game and generate scoring chances made him stand out in one of the world's most competitive leagues.
What the Maxim Shabanov Stats Reveal
Statistically, Shabanov's trajectory is promising. In his final KHL season, he posted 50 points (25 goals and 25 assists) in 64 games. His points-per-game average ranked among the top 20 forwards in the league.
When comparing his KHL numbers to similar players who made the successful transition to the NHL, such as Kirill Kaprizov and Artemi Panarin, Shabanov's output is well within range. His ability to create opportunities even when undersized makes him an analytical favourite, especially for teams seeking value beyond marquee names.
His versatility to play both centre and right wing also adds flexibility to the Islanders' forward depth chart, an asset in a league where adaptability often translates to minutes on ice.
Why the Islanders Made the Move
The Islanders' decision to sign Shabanov to a one-year entry-level contract worth $975,000 reflects a smart, strategic investment. The deal includes performance bonuses that could push his total earnings to $3.5 million, but it remains a low-risk, high-reward move.
General Manager Lou Lamoriello has emphasised the need to inject youth into the roster, and Shabanov ticks both boxes. The team has taken a similar approach before, most notably with Maxim Tsyplakov, another KHL talent brought in to add scoring depth.
Shabanov is expected to start in the Islanders' middle-six forward group. If he adapts well to North American ice, he could provide immediate offensive punch and potentially rise up the lines.
Could Shabanov Be the Islanders' Best-Kept Secret?
Maxim Shabanov might not have dominated headlines like other NHL offseason signings, but the stats and context suggest the Islanders may have quietly secured a valuable contributor. If his KHL production translates to the NHL level, Shabanov could emerge as one of the league's breakout stars this season. For a team in need of affordable impact players, this could prove to be a masterstroke.
