Mogilny: NHL's First Russian Pioneer

On March 24, Alexander Mogilny stands out as one of Russia's most daring NHL pioneers.

Drafted 89th overall by the Buffalo Sabers in 1989, he shocked the world by defecting from the Soviet Union during the world.

Juniors in Stockholm.

As the first Russian to make that bold move, he opened doors for future stars like Sergei Fedorov and Pavel Bore, while wearing number 89 too.

Mark his draft year and arrival.

In his early Buffalo days, Mogilny built his game steadily, hitting 39 goals in his third season.

Then, in 1992-93, pairing with new center Pat LaFontaine lit him up.

He scored 76 goals tied for the league lead.

With Team Useland and racked up 127 points, finishing 7th overall.

His outspoken style drew mixed reactions from media and fans, especially amid language hurdles, but his talent won them over.

The defections sparked initial fears about Soviet relations, yet it eased restrictions, letting more Russians chase NHL dreams and boosting the league's global appeal.

Mogilny bounced around after Buffalo, traded to Vancouver where he notched 55 goals despite Pavel Bore's injury absence.

He won the 2000 Stanley Cup with New Jersey, signed a $22 million deal in Toronto, earned the Lady Bing trophy in 2000,

2-3, and hit Tows and Thousand Career Points as the second Russian to do so.

Though injuries slowed his final years with the Devils, leading to retirement in 2006,

Mogilny's six All-Star nods and trailblazing legacy,

submit him among the NHL's elite Russians for ever sparking what if stories.

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I'm Cory with the Story.