Nikita Gusev, the dynamic forward for Dynamo Moscow, once again etched his name into KHL lore by matching the league’s all-time single-season points record. This milestone places him on equal footing with Sergei Mozyakin, the legendary scorer who previously held the mark and became a benchmark for excellence in the Kontinental Hockey League.
On February 22, Dynamo Moscow edged Severstal 3-2 in a tense regular-season matchup, a game remembered not only for the close score but for Gusev’s decisive tally. His goal in the contest propelled him to an impressive 85 points for the season, a total that mirrors Mozyakin’s record from the 2016/17 campaign. The achievement underscores Gusev’s consistency and his ability to elevate his performance when it matters most, reinforcing his status as one of the premier offensive players in the league.
Gusev did not stop there. Earlier in the season, he had already set another KHL landmark by becoming the first player in league history to reach 80 points in two separate regular seasons. He had previously posted 82 points during the 2018/2019 season, a feat that highlighted his scoring instincts and durability across different teams and circumstances.
His career path includes a notable contract with Dynamo Moscow this season, following a stint with SKA Saint Petersburg that culminated in a departure in April 2023. The transitions between clubs illustrate a player who has seamlessly adapted to varied team systems while continuing to produce at an elite level.
Gusev’s professional journey also spans the North American stage, where he competed in the National Hockey League with the New Jersey Devils and the Florida Panthers from 2019 through 2021. This period exposed him to a different style of play and helped broaden his international experience, contributing to his versatility and all-around game.
Beyond club success, Gusev has earned recognition on the international scene, including the status of Olympic champion with the Russian national team as part of the 2018 squad. His contributions on the world stage reflect a capacity to compete at the highest level and to bring leadership and scoring ability to a team when it counts most.
Historically, his name has also appeared in discussions about the best performers in the current KHL season, framing him not just as a scorer but as a player who shapes outcomes through skill, timing, and decision-making under pressure. The narrative around Gusev is one of sustained excellence, adaptability across leagues, and a relentless drive to push the boundaries of what is possible on the ice.