The Edmonton Oilers’ prospect pipeline has been the subject of much speculation and excitement in recent weeks, with fans eager to see which young talents might make the leap to North America.

Among those generating the most buzz is Nikita Yevseyev, a promising KHL defenceman whose name has repeatedly surfaced in Oilers circles.

Rumors swirled that Edmonton was on the verge of signing the 21-year-old blueliner, especially after his highly publicized dispute with his KHL club, AK-Bars.

Yevseyev’s combination of mobility, size, and professional experience made him an intriguing candidate for a potential move to the AHL, where he could further develop and possibly earn a spot on the Oilers’ NHL roster in the future.

However, as new reports have emerged, it appears that Oilers fans will have to wait a little longer to see Yevseyev in Edmonton colors.

Despite the mounting anticipation and the player’s own efforts to resolve his situation in Russia, the organization has decided not to pursue a contract for him this offseason.

The decision adds another twist to Yevseyev’s already eventful career and leaves open the question of when—or if—he will ultimately join the Oilers’ ranks.

Nikita Yevseyev

Photo credit: OilersNation

The Edmonton Oilers will not be pursuing a contract for KHL prospect Nikita Yevseyev, according to new reports from Jason Gregor.

Rumours surfaced last week that the Oilers could be making a contract offer to bring Yevseyev to North America – especially after he sued his KHL team – but it will not come to pass this year.

Edmonton Oilers will not pursue contract for KHL defenceman Nikita Yevseyev yet

Gregor reported on social media earlier that Yevseyev will not be joining the Oilers organization this offseason.

The Oilers selected Yevseyev in the 6th round of the 2022 NHL draft, and he’s gone on to become a promising prospect for Edmonton, ranked as their 20th best.

At 6’1 and 190 pounds, Yevseyev has been described as a mobile defenceman who can play a strong two-way game. At 21 years old, he’s already played 105 games of professional hockey with the KHL’s AK-Bars.

However, his time in Russia hasn’t exactly gone as planned for Yevseyev. After being ridiculously benched a few times, Yevseyev actually sued his team to terminate his contract or to leverage more playing time.

With his level of professional experience, the Oilers could look to bring him over directly to the AHL for reliable minutes, and he could potentially peak as a 6th or 7th defenceman. His KHL experience by this age for a defenceman along with his skating are true signs of potential.

Hopefully the Oilers are able to pull him away to North America next season, and Yevseyev can get into the pipeline to hopefully make the NHL.