Igor Larionov is one of the most famous Russian players to ever play in the NHL. Now, new reports suggest that he could be returning to the league at some point in the near future.
Scout Confirms Larionov's Possible Return To The NHL
Russian scout Alexey Dementyev recently did an interview with Russian media outlet Sport-Express.ru. In the exchange he revealed that long-time NHL player and current KHL head coach Igor Larionov could potentially return to North America.
"When the time comes and he has the desire, I don't think Larionov will have any problems getting a job in the NHL. With the way he works now and what he knows about hockey, his prospects will be great."
The veteran NHL player became head cooch of the KHL club Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod at the beginning of the 2022-23 season. This year his club is middle of the pack with a 33-27 record. However, he has developed a reputation as one of the smartest head coaches in the league. Furthermore, Dementyev notes how he understands the NHL mentality and speaks good English, qualities that could help him land an NHL role.
"I am sure that if Larionov wishes, he can absolutely calmly lead an NHL club, and his team will be bright, original, and interesting. Today, Igor Larionov is the brightest coach in the KHL. His work and the team's play attract great attention. Regarding Larionov's prospects in the NHL, Igor speaks excellent English. He understands the mentality of people in the league."
Larionov played in 921 career NHL regular season games and scored 169 goals and 644 points in the process. He also won three Stanley Cups, all with the Detroit Red Wings in 1997, 1998, and 2002.
