Through their official site, the Vancouver Canucks announced that they have signed Russian forward Ilya Safonov to a one-year, two-way deal. Safonov, who just turned 25, was originally drafted in the NHL by the Chicago Blackhawks with the 172nd-overall pick at the 2021 Entry Draft. His rights were then moved to the Canucks one year ago, in exchange for future considerations.
The 2025-26 campaign was one of the best of Safonov’s professional career. The Ak Bars Kazan forward appeared in 68 regular-season games, recording 33 points (16 goals, 17 assists). His numbers reflected his versatility, as he contributed both as a finisher and a playmaker.
Safonov elevated his game in the playoffs. In 20 postseason contests, he registered nine points (two goals, seven assists) and became one of Ak Bars’ most reliable forwards. His work on the power play and ability to perform under pressure stood out during the club’s playoff run, particularly in the Gagarin Cup Final series against Lokomotiv Yaroslavl.
Unfortunately for Safonov and Ak Bars, the season ended in disappointment. The Kazan club fell just short of capturing the Gagarin Cup, losing the championship series 4-2. The defeat carried extra weight for Safonov, who has now reached the league final twice but has yet to win a championship.
The Road to Vancouver
Safonov’s move to North America had been anticipated for months. Reports throughout the winter linked him to a potential NHL move, although Ak Bars management remained hopeful that he would stay.
“Yes, we knew he attended the camp, and we had an agreement,” Ak Bars general manager Marat Valiullin said in May. “During the winter, people were saying he would leave for sure, but there was still a chance he would remain with us.”
Ultimately, Safonov chose to pursue his NHL opportunity.
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