In an unexpected move that has sent shockwaves through the hockey community, Nikolai Zherdev, the 4th overall pick from the 2003 NHL Draft, has officially inked a contract with Alleghe, a team competing in Italy's secondary hockey league.
Zherdev's signing marks a significant shift in his career trajectory. Once celebrated as one of the world's most skilled players, Zherdev's journey was marred by a perceived lack of drive, preventing him from achieving prolonged NHL stardom. Despite this setback, he managed to secure numerous NHL seasons with over 20 goals each, even surpassing the 60-point mark on one occasion.
The Russian talent departed the NHL after a mere six seasons of playing for the Blue Jackets, Rangers, and Flyers, opting to return to Russia where he competed in the KHL until 2018. Following a year-long hiatus, he participated in the VHL during the 2019-20 season. Since then, he has bounced all around Europe including playing in Belarus and Slovakia.
Zherdev's legacy remains in the realm of 'what-ifs' within NHL history. Had he fully committed himself, experts speculate that he could have potentially amassed an impressive 1,000-point milestone, establishing his name as one of the most dominant Russian players of all time.
