Breaking NHL Signing: Top KHL Free Agent Maxim Shabanov Makes His NHL Decision

The New York Islanders have won the sweepstakes to sign the most sought-after KHL free agent this summer, Maxim Shabanov.

Islanders News: The New York Islanders have signed forward Maxim Shabanov to a one-year, entry-level contract.

— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) July 2, 2025

It's a one-year, entry-level agreement with the 24-year-old Russian forward with a $975,000 cap hit. He's coming off two terrific seasons in the KHL with Traktor Chelyabinsk. This past year, he had 23 goals and 67 points in 65 games, following up a 25-goal, 50-point season the year before. 

At 5-foot-8 and 157 pounds, there will be many who question his ability to thrive in the NHL, but Shabanov has explosive talent on the offensive end, and is expected to play an important role with the Islanders next season.

It's been quite the summer for the Isles, who won the NHL lottery and were able to select their new franchise defenseman, Matthew Schaefer, with the first overall pick, and have now landed top free agent from outside North America in Shabanov.