Zakhar Bardakov, a Russian forward who currently plies his trade for SKA, has made it clear that his next professional step is a return to the National Hockey League, with the Colorado Avalanche at the top of his wish list.
The path back to the Avalanche has been shaped by a clause in the entry‑level contract he signed with Colorado before electing to head back to the KHL, a move that was triggered when the team assigned him to the American Hockey League after his rookie campaign.
A KHL Chapter Shapes NHL Ambitions
Bardakov views his year in the KHL as a deliberate exercise in sharpening his game, believing that the heightened competition and different style of play will translate into a stronger NHL roster spot.
During his debut NHL season, he logged ten points across sixty appearances, a respectable showing that has not gone unnoticed by the Avalanche management.
Qualifying Offer Keeps Avalanche Options Open
A qualifying offer extended by Colorado retains his rights, meaning the club can still negotiate a new deal should Bardakov make the move next season.
Looking Ahead
With the Avalanche still holding his rights, Bardakov is preparing for the upcoming campaign, hopeful that his KHL experience will finally earn him a spot on the roster and a chance to contribute to a team that is eyeing a deep playoff run.