The Bloomington Bison announced that 31‑year‑old defenseman Rinat Valiyev has signed a contract to play for the team in the 2026‑27 ECHL season, adding a seasoned presence to the blue line.
Career Highlights
Valiyev’s journey to the Bison began when he was selected 68th overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs, a third‑round pick that marked the start of a professional trajectory spanning North America, Russia and Kazakhstan.
He made his NHL debut in the 2015‑16 season, appearing in ten games for Toronto before also logging two contests with the Montreal Canadiens during the 2017‑18 campaign, showcasing his ability to adapt to different NHL environments.
Beyond the NHL, Valiyev has been a mainstay in the American Hockey League, where he logged more than 260 games for the Stockton Heat, Toronto Marlies and Laval Rocket, compiling 85 points and a +55 rating, a testament to his durability and offensive contributions from the defensive position.
His international experience includes two assists in 21 games in the Kontinental Hockey League, as well as a productive stint split between Russia and Kazakhstan, where he recorded 49 points in 84 regular‑season games and 11 points in 14 playoff games for HK Almaty.
Valiyev’s junior career was highlighted by a 74‑point performance with the Kootenay Ice and 13 points with the Indiana Ice, earning him a spot on the 2014‑15 WHL East Second All‑Star Team and a silver medal with Russia at the U20 World Junior Championship.
The Bison’s acquisition of Valiyev is expected to bolster their defensive stability and provide veteran leadership as they prepare for the upcoming season, bringing a blend of NHL exposure, AHL consistency and European experience to the roster.