As the Montreal Canadiens search for the perfect second-line center intensifies, a new and unexpected name has emerged from the depths of the KHL, sparking intrigue across the hockey world.

After last season’s revolving door at the center position—with promising experiments and failed trade attempts—the Canadiens find themselves at a crossroads, eager to secure a dynamic presence down the middle.

While familiar names like Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook have auditioned for the role, neither has fully convinced fans or management that they are the long-term answer.

Even a potential blockbuster move for Jordan Kyrou fell through, leaving the team to explore other avenues.

Now, whispers from overseas are growing louder, as a rising star in Russia’s top league continues to turn heads with his impressive stats and rapid development.

At just 23 years old, this forward has never been drafted by an NHL team, but his performances have ignited speculation about his future—and whether Montreal could be the destination that finally brings him to North America.

With rumors of interest from rival teams and the possibility of a dramatic shift in his career plans, the Canadiens may be on the verge of a bold move that could reshape their lineup for years to come.

KHL forward star Danil Aimurzin (left) Montreal Canadiens logo (right)

Photo credit: All Habs

Since the end of last season, the Montreal Canadiens have been trying to acquire a center for the second line, and a very interesting option could be found in the KHL.

Martin St-Louis tested several players at the second-line center position last year.

Kirby Dach started the season in this role, but he was unable to establish himself as a long-term solution for the Canadiens.

Alex Newhook also had his turn on the second line, but it’s hard to imagine Newhook filling this role for an entire season.

Kent Hughes tried to acquire Jordan Kyrou to fill the position, but the trade fell through.

The good news is that the Canadiens have several future options, including Zachary Bolduc, Ivan Demidov, and Michael Hage.

However, a very interesting option for the Canadiens could be found in the KHL.

Forward Danil Aimurzin Could Be the Canadiens’ Future Second-Line Center

Danil Aimurzin is a forward currently playing for Severstal Cherepovets.

He has played the past two seasons with the team and has posted excellent statistics.

In 2023-24, he recorded 48 points in 63 games.

Last season, he collected 57 points, including 31 goals, in 66 games.

His progression is excellent, and he is only 23 years old.

He has never been drafted by the NHL and could prove to be a very interesting option for the Canadiens.

His agent mentioned that he plans to play another year in the KHL next season, but an NHL invitation could change those plans.

I had watched Danil Aimurzin a bit this year and I can say I’d be surprised if he doesn’t get signed by a NHL team in a year or two.

He was linked to the Toronto Maple Leafs this season, but nothing appears to be finalized.

Finally, we will be following this situation closely this season.