Winnipeg Jets Sign Former Second-Round Pick Forward

The Winnipeg Jets have signed Nikita Chibrikov to a three-year, entry-level contract.

Chibrikov was selected by the Jets in the second round (50th overall) of the 2021 NHL draft. The contract is worth an average annual value of $925,000 in the NHL and will begin in the 2023-24 season.

Nikita Chibrikov (NHL 2021 2nd round, 50th pick) signs 3 year NHL entry level contract with #GoJetsGo Winnipeg Jets! #WeAreGoldStar! pic.twitter.com/kZeWw8l6mB
— Dan Milstein-Hockey (@HockeyAgent1) May 1, 2023

Chibrikov played for Spartak Moscow of the Kontinental Hockey League during the 2022-23 season, where he scored one goal and provided one assist in 31 games.

He also had stints in the minor-league Supreme Hockey League (VHL) and the Junior Hockey League (MHL). Over his three-season KHL career, Chibrikov has a total of two goals and two assists in 51 games.

Despite his limited production in the KHL, the Jets clearly see potential in Chibrikov as a prospect. He has represented Russia at various youth levels and served as captain of the Russian team at the 2021 U18 world championships, where they earned a silver medal.

#NHLJets officially sign F prospect Nikita Chibrikov to an entry-level deal. https://t.co/NiRJu135iH
— Ken Wiebe (@WiebesWorld) May 1, 2023

Chibrikov has been signed to a professional tryout contract with the Manitoba Moose, the Jets' AHL affiliate, for the remainder of the season. The Moose are currently tied 1-1 with the Milwaukee Admirals in their best-of-five playoff series.

This signing provides Chibrikov with the opportunity to showcase his skills and further his development in North America. The Jets are hoping that Chibrikov will make an impact with the team in the coming seasons. Photo Credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports