Former Oiler fan favourite close to decision on his NHL future
Former Oilers fan favourite Klim Kostin is reportedly considering a move back to playing in the KHL, according to a trusted source for Russian hockey news.
Kostin has been struggling greatly this season on the Sharks, even being healthy scratched for weeks at a time.
Klim Kostin appears potentially headed back to playing in KHL
According to Hockey News Hub on X, a source that's accurately reported KHL News, Kostin has appeared on a list of names considering a return to Russia.
Other notable names on the list include Calgary Flames' Andrei Kuzmenko and Sharks goalie Alexander Georgiev. Hockey News Hub specified it is not a full or official list - still just consideration.
If Kostin does move back to the KHL, it won't be a surprise. Considering his healthy scratched record and lack of success in recent years, his NHL prospects look very low for next season as a free agent.
In 26 games with the San Jose Sharks this year, Kostin has only scored 1 goal and 4 points.
He's still one of the best fighters in the league, but he's simply not showing enough to warrant a roster spot on a league-worst team.
Oilers likely will not pursue reunion with Klim Kostin
The reality is Kostin has struggled greatly in all of his NHL opportunities outside of a magical run with the Oilers in 2022-23. In 57 games with the Oilers, Kostin scored 21 points, had an incredible playoffs, and was a feared opponent on the forecheck.
Kostin was incredibly fond of his time with the Oilers, even returning in the playoffs to watch the team on his own last year, and calling Edmonton his home.
Although some Oilers fans and Kostin himself may love a reunion, the fact is he hasn't proved himself to be an NHL level player in some time now. It seems like the logical move for him would be the KHL next year.
