Ivan Fedotov has faced significant challenges transitioning to the NHL. Initially slated to join the Flyers in May 2022, Fedotov encountered obstacles when his KHL team, CSKA Moscow, compelled him to fulfill mandatory military service in Russia, effectively keeping him from playing in the NHL.
In response to this breach of contract, both Fedotov and CSKA Moscow have been penalized. Fedotov himself has been banned from participating in any international competitions sanctioned by the IIHF for the next three seasons. While Russia is currently banned from IIHF events, this sanction remains in place should they be reinstated.
Additionally, the IIHF has fined the Russian Hockey Federation 1 million Swiss francs (approximately 100.5 million rubles or $1.08 million USD) for their role in the matter. The federation plans to appeal this hefty fine.
Despite these setbacks, Fedotov has since relocated to North America and is making strides with the Philadelphia Flyers. However, his experience may influence how KHL teams approach the transfer of Russian players to the NHL in the future.
