Yakupov's NHL comeback: from first overall pick to KHL and back?

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Sam Jones
August 10, 2024 (4:46 PM)

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In a surprising turn of events, Nail Yakupov, the first overall pick of the Edmonton Oilers in the 2012 NHL Draft, is eyeing a return to North American ice after a seven-year stint in the KHL.

Now 30, Yakupov is a free agent, and his recent activities suggest he's not just ready but eager to lace up his skates in the NHL once again.

Yakupov's journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. After a promising rookie season where he tallied 17 goals and 31 points in just 48 games, his career trajectory didn't quite align with the high expectations set by his draft position. Following a series of less impactful seasons, the Oilers parted ways with Yakupov in 2016, trading him to the St. Louis Blues. His time in the NHL wound down after stints with the Blues and the Colorado Avalanche, culminating in a move to the KHL in 2018. Over his 350-game NHL career, Yakupov accumulated 62 goals and 136 points-a modest return for a former top pick.

His attempt to return to the NHL isn't without its doubts, especially considering his intermittent play in the KHL, marred by injuries. Despite these challenges, Yakupov has been actively preparing for a comeback. He's been spotted training with notable young talents like Andrei Svechnikov and Matvei Michkov, signaling his serious intent. A recent Instagram post featuring Yakupov in Colorado Avalanche gear carried a telling caption:

"Brother, I arrived early and am getting ready. You understand."- Nail Yakupov

Speculation around his NHL return heated up when TheMugNHL on Instagram hinted at potential interest from several teams considering him for a tryout contract. With training camp approaching, Yakupov might secure a deal that could either reignite his NHL career or send him back to the KHL. A team with a robust Russian roster, like the Carolina Hurricanes, might be an ideal fit for his comeback attempt.

As training camp nears, the hockey world is abuzz with curiosity: Can Yakupov make a significant impact upon his return? Or has time away from the NHL's rigor dimmed the spark of this once highly-touted prospect? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain-Yakupov's story adds an intriguing chapter to this NHL offseason.