SerpApi.Org
Zakhar Bardakov may be back in the KHL, but the Russian forward has made it clear that his long-term goal remains the NHL. In a recent interview with Sport Express, the 25-year-old revealed he is determined to return to North America after spending the upcoming season with SKA St. Petersburg.
Bardakov's departure from the Colorado Avalanche was not driven by frustration with the organization. Instead, it was the result of a clause in his entry-level contract that allowed him to return to the KHL if he was assigned to the American Hockey League rather than remaining on Colorado's NHL roster.
After the Avalanche sent him to their AHL affiliate, Bardakov exercised that option instead of continuing his development in the minors. Despite the move, Colorado still retains his NHL rights after extending him a qualifying offer, leaving the door open for a future reunion.
The Russian forward admitted that his brief NHL experience changed his perspective on what it takes to succeed at the highest level. Bardakov explained that competing in the NHL pushed him to improve every aspect of his game and gave him confidence that he can become an impact player.
"I 100% want to return there," Bardakov said, adding that his one-year contract with SKA was signed specifically to preserve the opportunity to head back to the NHL as early as next season if everything goes according to plan.
Although his rookie campaign with the Avalanche produced just 10 points in 60 games, Bardakov views the experience as an important step in his development rather than a disappointment. He believes another year in Russia will allow him to refine his game before making another push for a permanent NHL role.
For Colorado, Bardakov's decision offers a potential long-term payoff. If he takes another step forward in the KHL, the Avalanche could welcome back a more polished and confident forward who already understands the demands of playing in the world's top hockey league.
With his NHL rights still belonging to Colorado and his commitment to returning stronger than ever, Bardakov's story is far from over. Instead of closing the chapter on his NHL career, the Russian forward sees his season in the KHL as a temporary stop before making another run at becoming an everyday player for the Avalanche.
