The Colorado Avalanche secured their top goaltending prospect, Ilya Nabokov, by signing him to a two-year entry-level contract. Selected 38th overall in the 2024 NHL draft, Nabokov has made waves in the KHL, helping Metallurg Magnitogorsk clinch the Gagarin Cup and earning accolades as the league's rookie of the year and playoff MVP. Despite his impressive track record, his smaller stature at 6'1" may have contributed to his delayed draft status.

The Avalanche's goaltending situation has become competitive with the acquisitions of veterans Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood. Blackwood is locked in for five seasons, while Wedgewood’s deal expires after the 2025-26 season. There's speculation that Nabokov might be loaned back to his KHL team for further development, potentially positioning him as a candidate to replace Wedgewood in the 2026-27 season.