Quote:
Originally Posted by Bingo
I hear that with Rafikov, he's Russian through and through. Kharnakhov played for the Hitmen though, so he's been to the city and knows what to expect if he improves enough to be a factor for the Flames.
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I dunno. If he was really interested in making the NHL a priority, the AHL would be a quicker route. Instead he likely chased some sure money playing in the KHL rather than toiling in Stockton for years on an AHL salary. Which is fine, I get why he did that, but if he's more comfortable in Russia, I don't see why he would come back any time soon. You might see him back in the NHL after the Flames' rights to him expire.
It should also be noted that he's struggled to stick in the KHL and has played more often in the lower league. I think as of right now he's not necessarily better than any of the career AHLers on this list.