BREAKING NEWS: Sharks Sign Goalie Ilya Nabokov to Two-Year Entry-Level Contract Through 2026–27 Season
The San Jose Sharks have officially signed Russian goaltender Ilya Nabokov to a two-year, entry-level contract that will keep him with the organization through the 2026–27 NHL season. The announcement was made today by Sharks General Manager Mike Grier, marking a significant step in the franchise’s long-term goaltending plans.
Nabokov, 21, has emerged as one of the top goaltending prospects in Russian hockey and recently concluded a standout season with Metallurg Magnitogorsk in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). The young netminder posted a stellar 2.15 goals-against average (GAA) and a .930 save percentage across 52 regular-season games, followed by a dominant playoff performance where he helped lead Metallurg to the Gagarin Cup Final. His poise under pressure, athleticism, and technical skill caught the attention of NHL scouts throughout the season, and now he will be taking the next step in his career with the Sharks organization.
A Rising Star in Russian Hockey
Nabokov was selected by the San Jose Sharks in the fourth round (111th overall) of the 2021 NHL Draft. Since then, his development has progressed steadily, culminating in a breakthrough 2024–25 KHL season that earned him recognition as one of the league’s best young goaltenders. His playoff run with Metallurg was particularly impressive, as he posted a 1.75 GAA and a .945 save percentage in the postseason, helping his team reach the league final before falling in a tightly contested series.
A native of Magnitogorsk, Russia, Nabokov has often been compared to other successful Russian goalies who have transitioned to the NHL, such as Igor Shesterkin and Ilya Sorokin. His ability to read plays, recover quickly, and remain composed in high-stress situations sets him apart from many goalies his age.
“He’s a mature player with excellent work habits and a great understanding of the game,” said Sharks Director of European Scouting Nikolai Ladygin. “What he’s done in the KHL at his age is remarkable. We believe he has the tools to be a top-tier goaltender in the NHL.”
Filling a Key Need
The Sharks have been in a rebuilding phase over the past few seasons, and securing a long-term solution in net has been one of the organization’s primary objectives. With several goaltending prospects in the pipeline, including Magnus Chrona and Georgi Romanov, the addition of Nabokov deepens the team’s talent pool at the position and adds a potential future starter to the mix.
“This is an exciting signing for us,” said General Manager Mike Grier. “Ilya has taken major strides in his development, and we believe he has the potential to become a cornerstone for us in the net. We look forward to seeing him continue his growth within our system.”
While the Sharks have relied on veteran goaltenders in recent seasons, including Mackenzie Blackwood and Kaapo Kähkönen, neither has firmly cemented themselves as a long-term number-one option. With Nabokov’s arrival, the Sharks now have the opportunity to groom a goaltender with elite potential who could anchor the position for years to come.
The Legacy of the Name “Nabokov”
Sharks fans will undoubtedly recognize the last name. Though unrelated, Ilya Nabokov shares a surname with legendary Sharks goaltender Evgeni Nabokov, who spent over a decade in San Jose and remains one of the most beloved players in franchise history. Evgeni, currently serving as the Sharks’ goaltending development coach, has played a key role in mentoring young netminders throughout the organization. His presence could be an added benefit in helping Ilya adjust to the North American game and the culture of the NHL.
“I’ve watched Ilya closely over the past couple of years,” Evgeni Nabokov said. “He’s got a good head on his shoulders, a great attitude, and he plays the position the right way. The name is a fun coincidence, but this kid is writing his own story—and it’s just beginning.”
Looking Ahead
With his contract now signed, Ilya Nabokov is expected to attend the Sharks’ upcoming development camp this summer, giving coaches and fans their first look at the promising goaltender in person. Depending on how he performs in training camp and preseason, he could start the 2025–26 season with the Sharks’ AHL affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda, or possibly challenge for an NHL roster spot.
Either way, the Sharks’ investment in Nabokov is a clear sign of their confidence in his abilities and their commitment to building a competitive team for the future. With a solid mix of veteran leadership and young talent, the organization is hopeful that Nabokov can be a foundational piece in its resurgence.
As the Sharks continue their efforts to reshape their roster and cultivate a new era of success, the addition of Ilya Nabokov represents both a strategic and symbolic move—signaling that the future between the pipes in San Jose may soon be in very capable hands.
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