Nail Yakupov is getting another shot in the NHL, as the Colorado Avalanche inked the former first overall pick to a one-year deal.
Avalanche sign former 1st overall pick Nail Yakupov to 1-year deal
Colorado is a good landing spot for the NHL’s most notable bust.
Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports
CapFriendly reports the deal is worth $875,000.
Yakupov was the first overall selection in the 2012 NHL draft by the Edmonton Oilers, but never lived up to his considerable promise. He scored 17 goals as a rookie, which still remains a high-water mark for him. In 292 NHL games, Yakupov has 53 goals and 120 points. This, after 80 goals and 90 points in 107 OHL games made him the first overall pick in the first place.
The Blues traded for Yakupov before the start of last season, but opted not to re-sign him after he had nine points in 40 games. Colorado might be the best place for him, in all honesty.
The Avalanche, coming off a 48-point season, will field a young and rebuilt roster with zero expectations in 2017-18. Yakupov could find himself playing more minutes than ever. It’s a good opportunity, and possibly his last.
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