BREAKING Max Shalunov Makes Decision Regarding Blackhawks.

"It seemed like it was finally going to be the year and we've finally got a decision. For years we've been waiting to see when highly touted Chicago Blackhawks' prospect Maxim Shalunov will come to North America and play for the Blackhawks. Well, we'll keep waiting. Now 28 years old, the forward has signed a three year deal with Lokomotiv of the KHL. According to Scott Powers of The Athletic, the deal does include a clause that would allow him to jump over to the NHL next season. Powers adds that Shalunov received an offer from another NHL team but the forward still prefers to play for the Blackhawks who drafted him back in 2011. He registered 18 goals and 17 assists for CSKA Moscow last season and added 12 goals and 6 assists during the playoffs. Maybe one day we'll see him finally jump over.

Max Shalunov has agreed to a three-year contract to remain in the KHL. A source says he's signing with Lokomotiv. His contract does include an opt-out clause next season to join the NHL. Shalunov's agent said Shalunov is still hopeful to eventually sign with the Blackhawks.
— Scott Powers (@ByScottPowers) August 8, 2021

Shalunov did have an offer from an NHL team, but it was from one he was not interested in playing for, a source said. The Blackhawks did discuss signing Shalunov, but there isn't the cap or roster space for him at this time.— Scott Powers (@ByScottPowers) August 8, 2021

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