Ilya Safonov is expected to sign with the Vancouver Canucks after deciding to leave Ak Bars Kazan and pursue his NHL career, according to a report from RG. The 25-year-old Russian center had been close to joining Vancouver earlier, but the move became uncertain after significant changes in the Canucks’ front office and coaching staff this spring. Safonov, who has played in the Ak Bars system since 2018, is now believed to have reached an agreement with the club on a one-year entry-level contract.
Safonov spent the 2025-26 season as one of Ak Bars’ key forwards, producing 33 points in 68 regular-season games with 16 goals and 17 assists. He added nine points in 20 playoff games as Ak Bars advanced to the Gagarin Cup Final before losing the series 4-2 to Lokomotiv Yaroslavl. His performance further strengthened his reputation as a strong two-way center who can contribute offensively while also handling physical responsibilities in all three zones.
Known for his size, physicality and net-front play, Safonov has built a profile as a hard-driving forward who can battle in the crease and provide depth down the middle. Those traits are expected to interest Vancouver as the team looks to add size and center depth. The report noted that his move will be watched closely by analysts, scouts and hockey betting sites as the Canucks continue reshaping their roster.
Safonov was originally drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the sixth round, 172nd overall, of the 2021 NHL Draft. His rights were later traded to Vancouver, giving the Canucks the opportunity to bring him to North America. He had previously considered making the jump a year earlier, but ultimately remained in Russia for one more season with Ak Bars.
The Canucks’ offseason changes played a major role in slowing the process. Vancouver overhauled its senior management and coaching staff, with general manager Patrik Allvin among those dismissed. Ryan Johnson, who had success with the team’s AHL affiliate and also served as assistant general manager, moved into a leading role in the organization. Safonov’s earlier understanding had been with the previous management group, which created uncertainty about his future until the sides reportedly renewed talks.
According to the report, Ak Bars’ management had hoped to convince one of its leaders to stay after the club reached the final, but Safonov and his agent, Dan Milstein, decided to move on. If finalized, the one-year entry-level deal would give Safonov his first NHL opportunity with Vancouver as he begins the next stage of his career.
