Report: Zach Fucale Attempting NHL Comeback After Two Fantastic KHL Seasons

Zachary Fucale, a 29-year-old goaltender and former 2013 second-round pick, is preparing for a NHL comeback after two impressive seasons in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) with Traktor Chelyabinsk. 

Since joining the team in 2023, Fucale has established himself as one of the league’s top netminders, boasting a 1.89 goals-against average, a .933 save percentage, and 12 shutouts across 94 games. 

His stellar performances have reignited NHL interest, with ESPN’s Kevin Weekes reporting “significant interest” from multiple teams for the 2025-26 season. To navigate his return to North America, Fucale has enlisted agent Dan Milstein, known for securing deals for high-profile players.

Hearing that Zach Fucale has hired Dan Milstein to help facilitate his @NHL comeback. Fucale has been the top goaltender in the KHL over the past two seasons, and there’s significant interest from @NHL clubs for the 2025-26 season.#HockeyX pic.twitter.com/A10gtvjDHE

— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) December 13, 2024

Drafted 36th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2013, he spent years in the AHL and ECHL, never securing a lasting NHL role. 

His brief NHL stint with the Washington Capitals in 2021-22 saw flashes of brilliance, including a shutout in his debut and a record-setting shutout streak to start his career. 

Despite these achievements, he struggled to find stability in North America and moved to Russia in 2023 in search of a fresh start. His time in the KHL revitalized his career, proving his ability to perform consistently under pressure and earn the trust of coaches as a starting goaltender.

I don’t think this is an exaggeration when I say Zach Fucale might actually be a Top 3 Canadian Goalie in the World right now. #HockeyCanada pic.twitter.com/CB0S2alVtI

— Jammy 🐝 (@SensBuzz) November 19, 2024

Teams like the Edmonton Oilers are reportedly considering him as a solution for goaltending depth, with potential roles ranging from an NHL backup to a tandem partner.

Photo Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images