Predators sign highly-touted Russian free agent to 1-year deal

The Nashville Predators did not qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2026. They will also have a new GM coming in, as Barry Trotz has decided to step down from his role as general manager.

Trotz is not off the job yet, though, and just made a splash signing, bringing in a highly-touted free agent out of the KHL, according to a release from the team on X, formerly Twitter.

The Predators have signed Vitali Pinchuk to a one-year, entry-level contract for the 2026-27 campaign. This move for the 24-year-old to join the NHL has long been in the process, according to his agent, Dan Milstein.

“Vitaliy Pinchuk has made the decision to continue his career in North America. Following a one year process, including virtual meetings with multiple NHL teams, the team has been selected and a 1 year NHL entry-level contract has been agreed upon. Official announcement to follow,” Milstein posted on X.

Now, the signing has come to fruition, as Pinchuk will be joining the Preds. He was third in the KHL in goals this past season, scoring 31 times, while also amassing a total of 66 points. His 66 points were tied for sixth in the KHL.

Pinchuk was undrafted and went on to join the KHL, playing for Dinamo Minsk. He played 252 career games in the KHL, finding the back of the net 73 times and adding 72 assists. Pinchuk also played one season in the OHL, playing for Kingston Frontenacs, and amassing 34 points in 54 games.

The Belarus center was choosing between the Los Angeles Kings and the Predators, according to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet.

Now, the Predators have another scoring option on the roster, and Trotz has one more accomplishment to tout in his long NHL career.

The post Predators sign highly-touted Russian free agent to 1-year deal appeared first on ClutchPoints.