Knyzhov Signs with San Jose

Jul 3, 2019

Springfield, Illinois – The Springfield Jr. Blues, proud members of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), are pleased to announce that alumnus Nikolai Knyzhov has signed an entry level contract with the San Jose Sharks. 

Knyzhov, 21, played for the Jr. Blues during the 2015-16 season. In 17 games played that season he registered 3 assists and had 8 penalty minutes. Knyzhov, who also spent time playing for the Austin Bruins and the Regina Pats in the WHL, has played for St. Petersburg of the VHL the last two seasons before signing with the Sharks this week. This past season the young Russian defenseman played for SKA-Neva St. Petersburg in the VHL and registered 1 goal and 4 assists in 44 games. 

Congratulations to Nikolai for his advancement to professional hockey here in North America! He joins over 140 alumni who have played professional hockey, including three players who have played in the NHL (Mike McKenna, Greg Rallo, and Gregg Naumenko).