The San Jose Sharks have placed Ivan Chekhovich on unconditional waivers according to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet. This likely indicates a contract termination, allowing the young forward to pursue other opportunities this season.
Chekhovich, 22, was set to enter the final year of his entry-level contract signed in 2018. He made his NHL debut in 2020-21, playing four games for the Sharks, but recorded just a single point. He spent the early part of the season in the KHL, where he found a lot more success, before joining the San Jose Barracuda for a stretch run.
Originally selected 212th overall in 2017, it’s an impressive accomplishment that Chekhovich even made it to the NHL at such a young age. A termination will make him an unrestricted free agent able to sign anywhere, though a return to the KHL seems likely.
A huge scoring talent at the QMJHL level, Chekhovich recorded 105 points in 2018-19 with the Baie-Comeau Drakkar. The talented forward has struggled to bring that level of offense to the minor leagues, however, with just ten goals and 32 points in 70 AHL contests. Still young enough to develop, he’ll be a name to keep an eye on down the road.