Calgary Flames Defenseman Leaving for Russia

The Calgary Flames won't be able to re-sign defenseman Nikita Nesterov as the Russian defender is heading back to his native land, signing a one-year deal to play in the KHL.

Calgary #Flames defender Nikita Nesterov has signed a one-year contract with CSKA Moscow (KHL). #CofRed

— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) June 16, 2021

The 28-year-old d-man played in  38 games last season for the Flames, recording four points and 20 penalty minutes. In 170 career NHL games, Nesterov has tallied nine goals and 28 assists, spending time with the Flames, Montreal Canadiens and Tampa Bay Lightning.

While he won't be returning next season to the NHL, we've seen in the past Nesterov goes wherever the wind blows him as he's been back and forth between the NHL and KHL for almost a decade.

As for the Flames, they have some major decisions to make on who gets exposed to the Seattle Kraken's expansion draft and there's a very good chance they end up losing a defenseman. Sounds like general manager Brad Treliving is going to have his work cut out for him this offseason.

Photo credit:  Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports