Former first-round pick looking to make NHL return after three years in KHL

After leaving the National Hockey League in 2020, many expected his playing days in North America to be over, but that doesn't appear to be the case.

San Jose Sharks 2014 first-round pick Nikolay Goldobin is looking to return to the National Hockey League for the 2023-24 season after spending the last three years in Russia with CSKA Moscow and Metallurg Magnitogorsk. His agent has confirmed the news in recent days.





The Moscow native became a restricted free agent in the KHL on Monday and was issued a qualifying offer by Metallurg Magnitogorsk, who will now retain his rights if he leaves for North America.

Goldobin, 27, appeared in 59 games for Metallurg Magnitogorsk this season, recording 36 points (19 goals, 17 assists), 35 penalty minutes and was a plus-one.

During his NHL career, he suited up in 125 games with the San Jose Sharks and Vancouver Canucks, where he put up 46 points (19 goals, 27 assists), 24 penalty minutes and was a minus-23.