EC-KAC have gone the Russian way for the first time since a felt eternity. Since their new signing is experienced Defender Andrei Zyuzin, the Red Jackets seem to have stepped over their long history of signing North Americans. Since making the grade to Professional Hockey in his native Ufa, Zyuzin spent the best part of a decade in the NHL, totalling 525 NHL games in which he scored 123 points. He was contracted with the San Jose Sharks, who drafted him into the NHL with the second overall pick in 1996 for three years. Then, he had spells with Tampa Bay Lightning, New Jersey Devils, Minnesota Wild, Calgary Flames and Chicago Blackhawks. His journeyman approach to the game saw him play for SKA St. Petersburg and Atlant Mytishchi before he landed in Swiss Biel at the start of this season, his contract their expired and the Red Jackets grabbed his rights.
„Zyuzin is a seasoned Defender who has strenghts on the Offense and on the Defense as well. His Experience and Calm approach to the game will surely help us instantly.”, said Headcoach Manny Viveiros.
Zyuzin will receive the Number-72-Jersey and will debut on Friday provided that paperwork will be finalized until then.