Dmitry Gamzin Seizing Opportunity as CSKA Moscow’s Starter

It’s been a busy couple of weeks for New York Islanders goaltending prospect Dmitry Gamzin. CSKA Moscow promoted 21-year-old Gamzin into the starting goaltender role due to an injury to incumbent Ivan Prosvetov

He’s spent most of this season as a backup, but now he’s the starting goaltender for a team competing for playoff position. Gamzin hasn’t flinched

And now the KHL is recognizing his play. The KHL named him “Rookie of The Week” during their 22nd week of play. In his two games, Gamzin faced 29 shots per game and posted phenomenal numbers (.965 SV% and 1.25 GAA)

For Gamzin, the aforementioned injury to Prosvetov has provided Gamzin with a tremendous opportunity. He’s already surpassed his games-played threshold from last year in the KHL. In recent weeks, his strong play has proven his value as a prospect. To some, it’s a wonder why he’s not the starting goaltender already

Through 18 games, Gamzin has posted .931 SV%, 2.12 GAA and a 5-4-6 record. His GAA and SV% are the best on CSKA Moscow this season. He also boasts two shutouts. His SV% is in the top five in the KHL among goalies who have played at least fifteen games. His GAA is in the top ten in the same qualifier.

Gamzin is playing some of his best hockey at a critical time…

His contract in the KHL expires at the end of the 2024-25 season. He could realistically arrive in North America as early as next season. Sergei Naumovs, the former goalie coach of CSKA Moscow, now holds the same role with the AHL’s Bridgeport Islanders. That may further entice Gamzin.

If Gamzin continues to excel in the KHL, his path to North America could become even clearer. With his strong numbers and a prime opportunity in CSKA Moscow’s crease, he’s proving himself as a legitimate prospect for the Islanders. Whether he makes the jump next season or stays in Russia a bit longer, his development is trending in the right direction.

 

featured image courtesy of the KHL

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