On Sunday afternoon, the Florida Panthers signed forward Nikita Gusev to a one-year, one million dollar deal.
Nikita Gusev
Nikita Gusev, 28-years-old, was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning with the 202nd overall pick (seventh round) in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. Despite getting drafted by Tampa Bay, Gusev spent his rookie season in New Jersey (2019-20). And during his rookie campaign, Gusev recorded 44 points (13 goals and 31 assists) in 66 games. But this year, it is a totally different story. The native out of Russia has only recorded five points in 20 games.
Prior to the NHL
Gusev has played in 381 career KHL (Kontinental Hockey League) games. During that time, Gusev has amassed 332 points (119 goals and 213 assists), earning the honors of becoming an All-Star four times, and a 2017 Gagarin Cup Champion. Gusev also played in the 2018 Olympic Winter Games, capturing a Gold Medal with the Olympic Athletes from Russia. In the process of capturing a Gold Medal, Gusev had a tournament-leading 12 points and eight assists in six games. In addition, Gusev has won two IIHF World Championship Bronze Medals (2017, 2019) and one IIHF World Junior Championship Silver Medal (2012).
Gusev will be eligible to suit up for the playoffs since he signed before Monday’s deadline.