Flames Sign Forward Prospect


The Calgary Flames are busy in the front office as well as on the ice these days. They’ve announced the signing of 20-year-old prospect Ilya Nikolaev. It’s a three-year entry level contract.

Nikolaev was a 3rd round pick by the Flames in the 2019 NHL Draft, 88th overall. He had a fine season in the USHL this year with the Tri-City Storm, with 72 points in 58 games. He scored 23 and assisted on 49. He’s kept up the pace in the USHL playoffs, racking up 5 goals and 3 assists in five games. He’s seen as a smart two-way player, who plays the full 200 feet.  

He played on Russia’s national team throughout his teens. He’ll start his pro career in the minors under the Flames’ purview.

Photo Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports