Vegas Golden Knights sign Russian forward Vadim Shipachyov
The Vegas Golden Knights have signed Russian forward Vadim Shipachyov out of the KHL on a two-year, $9 million contract.
Vadim Shipachyov was a very sought after KHL player, with multiple organizations vying for his signature. Shipachyov joins Reid Duke as the first two players on the Golden Knights roster. During his four years with SKA Sain Petersburg Shipyachov scored 67 goals and added 128 assists to his point tally over the course of 205 games.
Before joining SKA Saint Petersburg, Shipachyov played for Cherepovets Severstal. He played 249 games for the organization, scoring 70 goals and adding 122 assists. Impressive tallies for a very talented addition to the expansion Golden Knights.
NEWS: The Golden Knights have signed center Vadim Shipachyov to a two-year contract.
— 🏆 - Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) May 5, 2017
More: https://t.co/d08RKHNUT1 pic.twitter.com/9kx2tFAofu
Shipachyov, 30, was third in KHL scoring last season while playing with SKA Saint Petersburg. His 50 assists were also good for second among all players in the KHL. During the KHL Playoffs, Shipachyov had four goals and 15 assists over 17 games, helping SKA Saint Petersburg win their second championship in the last three seasons.
Golden Knights general manager George McPhee had good things to say about the signing, “Vadim is a highly skilled playmaker who has had an impressive career in the Kontinental Hockey League,” said Vegas Golden Knights General Manager George McPhee. “He has won two KHL championships, has been among the league leaders in scoring the last two seasons and has enjoyed success at the international level for Team Russia. We believe he can be an impact player in the NHL.”
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On top of a stellar playing resume, and great point production, Shipachyov brings leadership experience to the Golden Knights. While at Saint Petersburg and Cherepovets, Shipachyov served as both an assistant and a captain. Having a player with his ability with leadership qualities is an invaluable addition.
On the international stage, Shipachyov has represented Russia at the 2014, 2015, and 2016 IIHF World Championship. He was also a part of Team Russia at last summer’s World Cup of Hockey. Keep an eye on this year’s IIHF World Championship, as Shipachyov will once again be representing his home country.