Islanders sign KHL star Maxim Shabanov in free agency swing

The Islanders had more moves to make in free agency.

On Wednesday, they announced the signing of Russian winger Maxim Shabanov to a one-year, entry-level contract.

A source indicated the contract carries a $975,000 cap hit.


Maxim Shabanov (49) seen in action during the Kontinental Hockey League, regular season KHL 2023 - 2024 between SKA Saint Petersburg and Traktor Chelyabinsk at the Ice Sports Palace.
Maxim Shabanov (49) seen in action during the Kontinental Hockey League, regular season KHL 2023 – 2024 between SKA Saint Petersburg and Traktor Chelyabinsk at the Ice Sports Palace. SOPA Images/LightRocket via Gett

The Post first reported the Islanders’ interest in Shabanov, who played last season in the KHL, back in October.

It’s the second year in a row the Islanders have gotten the highest-rated European free agent after signing Max Tsyplakov a year ago.

The Flyers, Rangers and Utah were reportedly amongst the other teams considered.

Shabanov, who scored 23 goals and had 44 assists with Traktor Chelyabinsk last season, is 24 years old. He measures in at 5-foot-8 and 157 pounds.

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