Mikhail Gulyayev, drafted by the Colorado Avalanche 31st overall in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, has signed an extension to continue playing in the KHL. The league announced earlier today that he signed a three-year extension, extending his contract until the end of the 2026 season.
Gulyayev has been a pleasant surprise this season. He is averaging roughly about 15 minutes of ice time a game while playing for Avangard Omsk. He is performing well with a +12 rating and five points in 17 games this season. When he shoots the puck, he has a high success rate of 13.3%. He has not been overly physical, tallying only five hits, but sacrifices himself with at least one blocked shot per game.
18-year-old Mikhail Gulyayev celebrates his first KHL career goal! pic.twitter.com/kOqt4hbTQI
— KHL (@khl_eng) October 7, 2023
Scouts have considered Gulyayev a great pick at the 31st overall. He is a two-way defenseman who can kill you with his skating and puck handling skills. He is great in corner battles and strong on his skates in net-front battles. In an emergency, he can contribute to the offensive rush.
This is like a hockey art and Mikhail Gulyayev is an artist. pic.twitter.com/jhuOsgmV2w
— KHL (@khl_eng) October 13, 2023
Initially, Gulyayev was supposed to complete his Avangard contract and join the Avalanche at 20. One more year will postpone the plan until he is 21. The Avalanche have potential benefits in this. Nikolai Kovalenko delayed signing in Colorado, but in the meantime developed a huge part of his skills while playing in the KHL. He is now considered one of the top players in the league. Because of Devon Toews’ contract extension, the Avalanche might have financial limitations, so delaying a potential second NHL contract for Gulyayev could prove to be beneficial down the line.
Gulyayev’s decision to stay in Russia should not discourage you. It is a win-win situation. The young defenseman will receive ample playing time abroad. He is worth the wait for Avalanche fans, so be patient.