Kazan center Dmitry Voronkov, known as Ak Bars’ dynamic striker, has chosen to pursue a path in North American hockey and has already reached an agreement with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Reports from Match TV have indicated this development.
The contract with Columbus was agreed on some time ago, and the team is awaiting the moment to formally announce the move. The official confirmation is expected on the Blue Jackets’ website after May 1, following the expiration of Voronkov’s deal with Ak Bars. The key question is whether Voronkov will jump straight into the NHL or begin in the American Hockey League to cement his game. Critical details hinge on whether his current contract includes a clause allowing a return to the KHL if he is assigned to the farm team. This aspect remains uncertain, as cited by the source.
Voronkov has represented Ak Bars since 2018, contributing to the club with solid performances. He also earned a silver medal with the Russian national team at the Beijing Winter Olympics, underscoring his experience on the sport’s biggest stage.
This season, he appeared in 53 Kontinental Hockey League games, tallying 18 goals and 13 assists. His trajectory has drawn attention from NHL scouts and fans alike as the 2019 NHL Entry Draft saw him selected in the fourth round by an NHL team then expressing interest in his development abroad.
In the realm of media chatter, there were rumors linking Voronkov romantically to figure skater Alina Zagitova, though both athletes have not confirmed any such relationship publicly.
In related commentary, former goalie Dominik Hašek has offered remarks about supporting Russian hockey players, emphasizing a broader focus on the sport beyond national borders.