Valery Kamensky, a three-time world champion and Stanley Cup winner, argues that Russian clubs should negotiate directly with American teams without intermediaries. His stance was reported by Sport Express, highlighting a push for direct dialogue between leagues and clubs across the Atlantic.
The veteran executive contends that the current approach is flawed. He suggests suspending cooperation with the IIHF until Russia earns permission to compete internationally, arguing that hockey development requires clear, direct communication with NHL clubs. Kamensky believes both the KHL and the Russian Hockey Federation should establish immediate channels of contact with the NHL to streamline collaboration and player movement.
On August 14, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) imposed a one-season international transfer ban on CSKA. Additionally, CSKA’s goaltender Ivan Fedotov will be unavailable for the Continental Hockey League (KHL) until August 31, 2023 due to the ban’s consequences.
From July 2022 to July 2023, Fedotov served in the army, and he held a contract with the National Hockey League (NHL) Philadelphia Flyers. The 2023/24 season had him slated to play for CSKA in the KHL, with the season set to begin on September 1, marking a pivotal moment in the team’s plans and the broader international hockey landscape.
In related discussions, Dmitry Guberniev previously responded to Fetisov’s call regarding the International Ice Hockey Federation, adding to a broader public dialogue about governance, competition, and the future alignment of Russian hockey with international bodies. The conversation reflects ongoing questions about how Russian clubs navigate sanctions, league rules, and cross-border opportunities amid a dynamic global scene.
As the hockey world watches closely, these developments underscore the growing interest in alternate pathways for talent development, transfer negotiations, and strategic partnerships that could reshape the relationship between Russian hockey and its North American counterparts. The debate touches on federation autonomy, player career trajectories, and the potential for streamlined processes that could benefit athletes, clubs, and fans alike.