In an interview with Legalbet, former Ufa Salavat Yulaev goalkeeper Andrey Gavrilov highlighted Ilya Nabokov of Magnitogorsk as the season’s standout discovery in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Gavrilov argued that Nabokov’s performances propelled Metallurg Magnitogorsk toward the Gagarin Cup semi finals, underscoring how a fresh face can change the trajectory of a team during the playoff push. He described Nabokov as quick and smooth on the ice, noting that his arrival this season marked a clear turning point for Magnitogorsk. According to Gavrilov, Nabokov deserves serious consideration for the league’s best new player award as the season unfolds. (Legalbet)
