Since being drafted 54th overall by the New York Rangers in 2007, Anisimov has played 771 regular season NHL games, as well as another 43 in the playoffs. Besides the Rangers, he also suited up for Columbus, Chicago and Ottawa.
Anisimov relied on a PTO last season as well. That one was with the Philadelphia Flyers. He was injured in training camp and would eventually sign a PTO with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms that led to a regular contract. He played 55 games with the AHL team last season, scoring 19 goals and 36 points.
Anisimov played in his home country of Russia in 2021-22 for the first time in about 15 years. However, he was adamant about wanting to return to the NHL after the season ended. With Detroit releasing him from his PTO, things are looking grim for him when it comes to staying in the NHL.