Early in the morning on Friday, it was announced by Metallurg of the KHL that Roman Kantserov would terminate his contract in an effort to come to North America to play in the National Hockey League with the Chicago Blackhawks.
Kantserov had one of the best seasons by a 21-year-old (or younger) in the KHL. He led the league with 36 goals in 63 games while also showing off his ability to be tenacious and strong on every single shift he takes.
It is unclear what positions Anton Frondell and Frank Nazar will play in 2026-27, but Kantserov is sure to play on the wing in the top six alongside one of them or Connor Bedard. Right away, thanks to his ability to score in bunches, it should be an improved group simply based on his addition alone.
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The Blackhawks selected Kantserov in the second round (44th overall) of the 2023 NHL Draft. Now they have convinced him to leave his KHL squad to pursue opportunities in the world’s best hockey league.
Kantserov will turn 22 just ahead of the 2026-27 season, so he fits in perfectly with his future teammates, who are all young and ready to take a step as winners.
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