Report: Former Wild Prospect Alexander Khovanov Released from Metallurg Zhlobin

   

Alexander Khovanov was once a top prospect in the Wild's organization. He was drafted in the third round of the 2018 NHL Draft and after three years in the QMJHL with the Moncton Wildcats, Khovanov looked to have a promising future. 

Wildcats: Khovanov est enfin devenu un des meilleurs joueurs de la LHJMQ

He recorded 66 goals, 135 assists, and 201 points in 144 career games in the QMJHL. He put up 24 goals and 68 points in 38 games for Russia's U16 team and had a history of playing well in World Championships and World Juniors tournaments. 

But his transition to professional hockey was one to forget. Khovanov played in 22 games in Iowa where he recorded just one goal and five points. He was even demoted to the ECHL where he scored two goals in eight games during the 2021-22 season.

The Wild let Khovanov walk after his extremely disappointing first season of professional hockey. Khovanov went to the VHL with Bars Kazan. He played seven games for them and 35 for Neftyanik Almetievsk. He recorded seven goals and 17 points in 42 total games in the 2022-23 season.

During the 2023-24 season, Khovanov started in the VHL again but this time with HK Tambov. He later played for Metallurg Zhlobin of the Belarusian Extraliga league where he recorded five goals and eight points in 19 games. He has now been released from Metallurg according to EliteProspects. 

He has played on six teams in the last three seasons across four different leagues. 

What looked to be a promising career for Khovanov now looks like it could be over for the 24-year-old. Let us know what you think.