Former Top 5 Pick Signs Contract In Europe

The Columbus Blue Jackets thought they drafted a future superstar when they selected Nikolai Zherdev 4th overall during the 2003 NHL Draft. Zherdev was blessed with blazing speed and tremendous hands.

Zherdev played his first season in the NHL during the 2003-2004 season, scoring 13 goals and 34 points in 57 games. After the 2004 lockout, Zherdev came back to Columbus and had another solid season scoring 27 goals and 54 points in 73 games.

The Ukraine born winger played another two seasons in Columbus before getting traded to the New York Rangers. Zherdev led the Rangers in scoring in his only season in New York.

The Rangers and Zherdev couldn't agree on a contract which caused the winger to leave and play in the KHL for the 2009-2010 season. Zherdev came back to the NHL for the 2010-2011 season, signing a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Flyers. In 56 games he scored 16 goals and 22 points.


This turned out to be the last season in the NHL for Zherdev. After the conclusion of the 2010-2011 season Zherdev went back to the KHL where he remained until the 2017-2018 season.

After a two year break from playing professionally Zherdev made a comback during the 2021-2022 season splitting time in Austria as well as the AlpsHL.

Zherdev is on the move again, signing a contract with lleghe of the Italian Hockey League. (2nd division)


The 38 year old will go down as a talented enigma to the hockey world. He had all the skill to be an elite player in the league but ego, work ethic and failure to comply with authority got in the way.