Flyers Prospect’s Suspension Upheld by IIHF

Another twist in the saga of Philadelphia Flyers goaltending prospect Ivan Fedotov and a battle with CSKA Moscow of the KHL in Russia.

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has dismissed an appeal by CSKA on a contract dispute, and ruled that Fedotov did indeed have a valid contract with the NHL's Flyers, and his signing with Moscow for this season violated international transfer regulations. His suspension through the end of the calendar year is upheld (though he has played for CSKA earlier, defying the ban) and the KHL team will continue to have a one-season ban on international transfers.

2. This means that the IIHF confirms that CSKA and Fedotov breached the NHL-contract with the Flyers when the goalie signed a contract with CSKA to play in the KHL for 23-24 and 24-25. Fedotov has dressed for 23 games with CSKA despite the IIHF sanctions. >
— Szymon Szemberg (@Sz1909_Szemberg) December 18, 2023

Fedotov was detained in Russia and forced to complete his military service last year, and so was unable to play for Philadelphia for the 2022-23 season. His contract was supposed to slide to this season, but instead he signed a 2-year deal with CSKA in the summer.

4. This is the first time an IIHF affiliated federation, league and club have deliberately defied and disregarded an IIHF sanction.
— Szymon Szemberg (@Sz1909_Szemberg) December 18, 2023

Even with the ruling, it still appears that "the Flyers’ next chance to see Ivan Fedotov again will be after his contract expires, in 2025", according to Philly Hockey Now.

Fedotov was named the KHL’s top netminder for the 2021-22 season, and had a spectacular showing at the 2022 Olympics, becoming a top prospect for the Flyers.

Photo: George Walker IV-USA TODAY Sports