In further obstruction to Kabanov playing in juniors this season, IslandersCentral has learned that forward Kirill Kabanov, who was recently traded to the Shawinigan Cataractes, must receive a release from the Ice Hockey Federation of Russia in order to play in a game.
We had all been hoping that this trade would be the end of Kabanov's issues for playing time, but as we know considering his history, nothing's ever drama free even when you think it is. This is by no means Kabanov's fault, but is certainly another roadblock in his final year of juniors.
When questioned about Kabanov, Cataractes coach Vellieux responded that Kabanov has been practicing since arriving in Shawinigan and his practice time is a reflection of what's to come: "He's smart with the puck. He's got great vision and he can put the puck right on your tape even if he's got someone on his back. I also liked his compete-level, as he was really intense during the practices. He's a young kid who really wanna learn and who asks a lot of questions. He's brought some fresh air to the group".
While it may take up to 14 days to gain his release, the fact that Kabanov is at least training and working hard while not able to play is a positive sign. Even if he only gets to play in 40 or so games this year, it's better than nothing. He's just learning the ways of Shawinigan's chemistry right now and bonding with his teammates, so it's not a total loss as of right now. The sooner he can get into a game the better, but right now he just has to face one more roadblock before finishing up his junior career.
- AT
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