The New York Islanders are busy this summer. They brought in Matthew Schaefer with the first-overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. They have traded Noah Dobson and signed Jonathan Drouin. Their latest move sees them bring in a star from the KHL, Maxim Shabonov.
Shabonov Heading to Long Island
**Breaking News** ? ?
It’s the @NYIslanders that’ve signed Russian F Shabanov to a 1 Yr Contract withNHL 975,00 cap hit (SB + salary)
Max A (1 m) & B (2.5 m) bonuses. #HockeyX pic.twitter.com/vg6RoYsqfg
— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) July 2, 2025
The deal is for one year, worth $975,000. There are also incentives included for the 24-year old forward.
Shabonov’s KHL Career
Shabanov played parts of four seasons in the KHL with Chelyabinsk Traktor. He recorded over a point-per-game for the first time in his career this past year. In 65 games played, he picked up 23 goals and 44 assists for 67 total points.
In his 207-game KHL career, Shabanov picked up 67 goals and 83 assists for 150 points.
Shabonov’s Role in Long Island
The 24-year old will have the opportunity make an immediate impact with the Islanders. He will likely play alongside Mat Barzal and Bo Horvat on one of the top forward lines.
Shabonov will be an interesting name to watch in the Calder Trophy discussion this season.
Islanders Seeking Return to the Postseason
The Islanders missed the playoffs last season. However, they have had some success in recent seasons. In 2020 and 2021, the Islanders reached the Eastern Conference Final, but fell short of reaching the Stanley Cup Final.
The Isles moves this summer are about returning to those days and beyond. Drafting Schaefer helps the team build for the future while signing Shabonov improves the team currently.
Are the Islanders good enough to return to the playoffs this season? That can be debated. However, there is no debating this will be a competitive team to play again this season.
Main Photo: Russell LaBounty- Imagn Images
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