Canucks Ink Vitali Kravtsov to One-Year, Two-Way Deal After Breakout KHL Season
Vancouver, B.C. – The Vancouver Canucks have secured additional forward depth, announcing that the club has agreed to terms with 25-year-old forward Vitali Kravtsov on a one-year, two-way contract. General Manager Patrik Allvin confirmed the signing on Friday, praising Kravtsov’s development overseas and his potential impact heading into training camp.
“Vitali had a strong season in the KHL and was an impact player for his team,” Allvin said. “In his two seasons in Russia, he has worked hard on his game, and we look forward to seeing where Vitali is at when he comes to training camp in Penticton.”
Kravtsov is coming off one of the best campaigns of his professional career with Traktor Chelyabinsk in the Kontinental Hockey League. The 6’3”, 186-pound winger skated in 66 regular-season games during the 2024-25 season, recording 58 points (27 goals, 31 assists) while posting a stellar +31 rating. His 27 goals not only led all Traktor skaters but also ranked among the top marks in the league. He continued his strong play into the postseason, contributing seven points in 19 games to help Chelyabinsk reach the prestigious Gagarin Cup Final.
Kravtsov brings with him a blend of North American and international experience. Drafted ninth overall by the New York Rangers in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, he has logged 64 career NHL games split between the Rangers and Canucks, tallying 12 points (6-6-12) along with 14 penalty minutes. In addition, his KHL résumé is extensive: 288 regular-season contests with 160 total points, plus 40 points across 79 career playoff games.
A native of Vladivostok, Russia, Kravtsov has also represented his country on the international stage. Most notably, he helped Russia secure a bronze medal at the 2019 World Junior Championship, adding to his reputation as a versatile forward with offensive upside.
For Vancouver, the signing represents a low-risk, high-reward move. A one-year, two-way contract gives the organization roster flexibility while providing Kravtsov with another opportunity to establish himself in the NHL. If he can carry over the scoring touch and consistency he displayed in Russia, the Canucks may have found a valuable piece to bolster their forward group.
With training camp in Penticton fast approaching, all eyes will be on how Kravtsov adapts and competes for a roster spot as Vancouver looks to strengthen its depth heading into the 2025-26 season.
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