Famous Russian Ice Hockey Players

Evgeni Malkin is a Russian professional ice hockey centre and alternate captain for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the NHL. He began his career with Metallurg Magnitogorsk before being selected by the Penguins in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. Malkin has achieved numerous accolades, including the Calder Memorial Trophy for best rookie, Art Ross Trophy for points leader, and multiple Stanley Cup victories. Internationally, he has represented Russia in various tournaments, winning medals and earning accolades for his performances.

Alexander Ovechkin is a Russian professional ice hockey left winger and captain of the Washington Capitals in the NHL. Known as "Ovi" and "the Great Eight," he is considered one of the greatest goal scorers in hockey history. Ovechkin holds numerous NHL records, including the second-highest goal scorer of all time after Wayne Gretzky. He has won multiple awards, including the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy and the Hart Memorial Trophy. Internationally, he has represented Russia in various tournaments, achieving success at the World Championships and Winter Olympics.

Sergei Viktorovich Fyodorov is a former Russian professional ice hockey player and coach known for his career in the NHL, primarily with the Detroit Red Wings. Fyodorov won the Stanley Cup three times and the Hart Memorial Trophy as the NHL's most valuable player in 1994. He was one of the first players to defect from the Soviet Union to play in the NHL. Fyodorov played over 1,200 NHL games, scoring 483 goals, and is considered one of the best playoff performers in NHL history. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2015 and the IIHF Hall of Fame in 2016.

Alexander Radulov is a highly accomplished professional ice hockey player with an impressive career spanning the NHL and KHL. Known for his skill and achievements, Radulov has played for teams such as the Nashville Predators, Montreal Canadiens, and Dallas Stars, as well as Lokomotiv Yaroslavl in the KHL. With multiple championship wins and accolades to his name, including two World Championships and a Gagarin Cup victory, Radulov's career highlights also include being a four-time winner of the Golden Stick Award as the KHL MVP.

Kirill Kaprizov is a highly skilled Russian professional ice hockey left winger, currently serving as an alternate captain for the Minnesota Wild in the NHL. He started his career playing in the KHL for Metallurg Novokuznetsk, Salavat Yulaev Ufa, and CSKA Moscow before making his mark in the NHL. Kaprizov's outstanding performance earned him the prestigious Calder Memorial Trophy in 2021 as the NHL rookie of the year, a remarkable achievement for the first Wild player to receive this honor. Fans affectionately refer to him as "Dollar Bill Kirill" and "Kirill the Thrill".

Sergei Bobrovsky is a highly accomplished Russian professional ice hockey goaltender who has made a significant impact in the National Hockey League (NHL). Known for his exceptional skills, he has played for the Philadelphia Flyers, Columbus Blue Jackets, and currently the Florida Panthers. Bobrovsky is a two-time Vezina Trophy winner, establishing himself as one of the league's top goaltenders. In 2023, he made NHL history by becoming the winningest Russian goaltender. His career reached new heights when he won the Stanley Cup with the Panthers in 2024.

Semyon Varlamov is a Russian professional ice hockey goaltender who currently plays for the New York Islanders in the NHL. He began his professional career with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl in the Russian Superleague before being drafted by the Washington Capitals in 2006. Varlamov then played eight seasons with the Colorado Avalanche before joining the Islanders in 2019. Known for his strong goaltending skills, Varlamov has established himself as a reliable presence in the NHL, earning recognition for his performances on the ice.

Vladislav Aleksandrovich Tretiak is a prominent figure in the world of ice hockey, known for his exceptional skills as a goaltender for the Soviet Union national team. Inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame in 1997, Tretiak is revered as one of the sport's greatest goaltenders. His contributions to ice hockey extend beyond his playing career, as he currently serves as the president of the Ice Hockey Federation of Russia and has held key roles such as general manager for the Russian 2010 Winter Olympic team.

Ilya Bryzgalov is a retired Russian ice hockey goaltender known for his NHL career with the Anaheim Ducks, Phoenix Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Edmonton Oilers, and Minnesota Wild. He achieved success by winning the Stanley Cup in 2006-07 and earning various medals in international competitions. Bryzgalov represented Russia in multiple Olympic Games and World Championships, contributing to their gold medal victories. He was recognized for his outstanding performance as a goaltender, being a runner-up for the Vezina Trophy and a top-five finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy in the 2009-10 season.

Vladimir Konstantinov was a Russian professional ice hockey player who spent his entire NHL career with the Detroit Red Wings from 1991 to 1997. Prior to joining the NHL, he played for CSKA Moscow in the Soviet Union. Konstantinov's career came to an abrupt end following a tragic limousine crash just six days after the Red Wings won the Stanley Cup in 1997. He was known for his strong defensive play and physical style on the ice, becoming a key player for the Red Wings during his time with the team.

Vladimir Yevgenyevich Krutov, known as "The Tank," was a highly skilled Russian ice hockey forward famous for his role in the KLM Line alongside Larionov and Makarov. He excelled on the Soviet national team, achieving success at the Olympics and World Championships. Krutov played for CSKA Moscow before briefly joining the NHL with the Vancouver Canucks. Despite facing challenges, he continued his career in European leagues and later transitioned to coaching. His impactful career earned him a spot in the IIHF Hall of Fame.

Viacheslav "Slava" Fetisov is a Russian former professional ice hockey player and coach who achieved success both in the Soviet Union and the NHL. He played for HC CSKA Moscow before joining the New Jersey Devils and Detroit Red Wings in the NHL, winning back-to-back Stanley Cups with the Wings. Fetisov was a key figure in facilitating Soviet players' transition to the NHL. He later held various political and executive positions in Russia, including Minister of Sport and roles within the Federal Assembly and the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Vladimir Tarasenko is a Russian professional ice hockey right winger who has had a successful career in the NHL. He began his career in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) before being drafted by the St. Louis Blues in 2010. Spending over a decade with the Blues, he became one of the team's top scorers, participated in multiple NHL All-Star Games, and won a Stanley Cup in 2019. He later played for the New York Rangers and Ottawa Senators before joining the Florida Panthers, where he won a second Stanley Cup in 2024.

Alexei Vyacheslavovich Kovalev is a Russian professional ice hockey coach, executive, and former player with an extensive career in the NHL. Playing over 1,300 games for teams like the New York Rangers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Montreal Canadiens, he achieved success including winning a Stanley Cup. Kovalev also competed in the KHL with Atlant Moscow Oblast and had his last activity with EHC Visp in Switzerland. Currently, he serves as an assistant coach for HC Kunlun Red Star in the KHL.

Alexei Yashin had a successful professional ice hockey career, playing 12 seasons in the NHL for the Ottawa Senators and New York Islanders, captaining both teams. He also spent nine seasons in the Russian Superleague and Kontinental Hockey League, representing Dynamo Moscow, CSKA Moscow, Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, and SKA Saint Petersburg. Yashin's contributions to the sport were recognized when he was inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame in 2020, highlighting his impact on both North American and Russian hockey leagues.

Artem Anisimov is a Russian professional ice hockey centre who has played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for several teams including the New York Rangers, Columbus Blue Jackets, Chicago Blackhawks, and Ottawa Senators. He was originally selected by the Rangers in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. Anisimov most recently played for the Hartford Wolf Pack in the American Hockey League (AHL) and is currently an unrestricted free agent. Known for his skill and versatility, Anisimov has made significant contributions to each team he has played for throughout his professional career.

Igor Larionov is a Russian ice hockey coach, sports agent, and former professional player known as "the Professor." He is considered one of the best hockey players of all time. Alongside Viacheslav Fetisov, Larionov played a key role in allowing Soviet players to compete in the NHL. Primarily a centre, he won the Stanley Cup three times with the Detroit Red Wings and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2008. Larionov was a vital member of Detroit's renowned Russian Five line and was also honored with induction into the IIHF Hall of Fame.

Viktor Vasilyevich Tikhonov was a prominent figure in Russian ice hockey, known for his success as both a player and coach. As a defenseman for VVS Moscow and Dynamo Moscow, he achieved four national championships. Tikhonov later transitioned to coaching, leading the Soviet team to numerous World Championship and Olympic gold medals during its dominance in international play. Additionally, he guided CSKA Moscow to twelve consecutive league championships. Tikhonov's contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the IIHF Hall of Fame as a builder in 1998.

Alexander Semin is a retired Russian professional ice hockey winger known for his time in the NHL and KHL. He played for various teams in the NHL, including the Washington Capitals, Carolina Hurricanes, and Montreal Canadiens. Semin showcased his talent and skill on the ice, earning recognition for his scoring abilities and contributions to his teams. In his later years, he continued his career in the KHL, playing for HC Vityaz before eventually retiring from professional hockey.

Sergei Viktorovich Gonchar is a retired Russian professional ice hockey player who had an extensive career in the NHL. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching and has held various roles within NHL teams. Gonchar has served as an assistant coach for the Pittsburgh Penguins and is currently a Defensive Development Coach with the Vancouver Canucks. Throughout his playing career, he showcased his skills with several teams, including the Washington Capitals, Boston Bruins, Pittsburgh Penguins, Ottawa Senators, Dallas Stars, and the Montreal Canadiens.

Valeri Borisovich Kharlamov was a highly skilled and dominant Russian ice hockey forward who played for CSKA Moscow in the Soviet League from 1967 until his untimely death in 1981. Known for his speed, intelligence, and creativity on the ice, he was a gifted skater and a top scorer. Kharlamov was considered one of the greatest players of his era and excelled in international play, winning numerous medals. He was posthumously honored in various hockey halls of fame and had several prestigious trophies and awards named after him.

Evgeny Kuznetsov is a Russian professional ice hockey forward who has played for SKA Saint Petersburg in the KHL, as well as the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes in the NHL. He has also represented Russia in various international competitions, winning gold medals at the World Junior Ice Hockey Championships, IIHF World Championship, and Stanley Cup with the Capitals in 2018. Known for his impressive point-scoring abilities, Kuznetsov gained recognition for his signature bird celebration, earning him the nickname "the Birdman."

Maxim Afinogenov is a retired Russian professional ice hockey player known for his exceptional skating speed. He was selected by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1997 NHL Draft and played nine seasons with the team. Following his tenure with the Sabres, Afinogenov spent one season with the Atlanta Thrashers before concluding his career in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Throughout his career, he showcased his skill and speed on the ice, leaving a lasting impact on the teams he played for.

Andrei Viktorovich Markov is a retired professional ice hockey defenceman known as "the General". He played for the Montreal Canadiens in the NHL from 2000 to 2017. Markov was recognized for his strong defensive skills and leadership on the ice, earning him the nickname "the General". Throughout his career, he showcased exceptional talent and versatility, contributing significantly to the Canadiens' success. Markov's dual Russian and Canadian citizenship reflects his international background and experience in the hockey world.

Ilya Kovalchuk is a retired Russian professional ice hockey winger who played in both the National Hockey League (NHL) and the Russian Superleague/Kontinental Hockey League (RSL/KHL). He started his career with Spartak Moscow before joining the Atlanta Thrashers as the first overall pick in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. Kovalchuk also played for the New Jersey Devils, Los Angeles Kings, Montreal Canadiens, and Washington Capitals in the NHL, as well as several teams in the RSL/KHL. He achieved significant success internationally with the Russian national team, including winning multiple World Championships and an Olympic gold medal in 2018.

Valeri Ivanovich Vasiliev was a prominent Soviet and Russian ice hockey defenceman known for his exceptional skills while playing for Dynamo Moscow. He was a key player for the Soviet Union national team, serving as captain for 13 years. Vasiliev's remarkable career included being an eight-time Soviet all-star and his induction into the International Ice Hockey Federation Hall of Fame in 1998. His contributions to the sport and leadership on the ice solidified his legacy as one of the greats in ice hockey history.

Pavel Bure, known as "the Russian Rocket," was a highly skilled right wing ice hockey player who played 12 seasons in the NHL for the Vancouver Canucks, Florida Panthers, and New York Rangers. He won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's best rookie and led the NHL in goal-scoring in 1993-94. Despite struggling with knee injuries, Bure achieved impressive career stats and was elected into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2012. Internationally, he represented both the Soviet Union and Russia, earning numerous medals in World Championships and the Olympics.

Alexei Andreyevich Cherepanov was a Russian professional ice hockey winger who played for Avangard Omsk in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). He had a successful career playing for Avangard's lower-level teams before joining the senior men's team in the Russian Super League. Cherepanov was selected in the first round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Rangers but never played in North America. He represented Russia in international play, winning medals at the junior level tournaments. Cherepanov tragically passed away at age 19 due to heart failure during a KHL game.

Alexandar Georgiyevich Georgiev is a professional ice hockey goaltender for the Colorado Avalanche of the National Hockey League (NHL). He made history as the first Bulgarian-born player to compete in the NHL. Georgiev has showcased his talents as a skilled goaltender, earning recognition for his strong performance on the ice. His achievements and contributions to the sport have solidified his reputation as a valuable asset to the Colorado Avalanche and the NHL as a whole.

Angelina Pavlovna Goncharenko is a prominent Russian ice hockey defenseman and captain of Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod in the Zhenskaya Hockey League (ZhHL). She has established herself as a key player in the Russian national team, showcasing exceptional skills and leadership on the ice. Goncharenko's professional career is marked by numerous achievements and contributions to her team's success. Her dedication and talent have earned her a respected position in the world of women's ice hockey, inspiring aspiring players and fans alike.

Valeri Vladimirovich "Val" Bure is a retired Russian-American ice hockey right winger who played ten seasons in the NHL for various teams. He was known for his scoring abilities and represented Russia internationally, winning medals at the World Junior Championship and Winter Olympics. Bure retired from hockey in 2005 due to injuries and now operates Bure Family Wines in St. Helena, California. He had a successful career in the NHL, being selected in the second round of the 1992 NHL Entry Draft and earning an NHL All-Star Game appearance in 2000.

Anatoly Vladimirovich Tarasov was a prominent Russian ice hockey player and coach renowned as the "father of Russian ice hockey." He played a pivotal role in establishing the Soviet Union national team as a dominant force in international competition. Tarasov was a trailblazer in the sport, being one of the first Russians inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. His influential coaching techniques and innovations revolutionized the USSR's ice hockey program, leaving a lasting impact on the sport's development.

Anna Aleksandrovna Prugova is a prominent Russian ice hockey player and a key member of the Russian national ice hockey team. She competes in the Zhenskaya Hockey League (ZhHL) with Agidel Ufa. As a two-time Olympian, she represented Russia in the women's ice hockey tournaments at the Winter Olympic Games in 2010 and 2014. Prugova has an impressive record in the IIHF Women's World Championships, winning bronze medals in 2013 and 2016. She also secured a silver medal at the 2013 Winter Universiade.