Blue Jackets Sign Sergei Ivanov

The Columbus Blue Jackets will finally see one of their top goaltending prospects play in the organization. According to a team announcement, the Blue Jackets have signed Sergei Ivanov to a two-year, entry-level contract.

Columbus drafted Ivanov with the 138th overall pick of the 2022 NHL Draft. He was playing for the MHL’s SKA-1946 St. Petersburg at the time, managing a 14-7-4 record in 26 games with a .928 SV% and 2.17 GAA. Despite his elite athleticism already being on display at the time, Ivanov fell in the draft over concerns that he would continue his professional career in Russia long-term.

For the last several years, that’s exactly what he’s done. Now 22 years old, Ivanov has spent the last few years on loan with Admiral Vladivostok, HK Sochi, and SKA St. Petersburg.

Despite his subpar KHL record throughout his career, it has not been his fault. Ivanov has a 34-50-8 record in 108 career games with a stellar .923 SV% and 2.65 GAA.

If Ivanov performs anywhere near as well in the AHL, the Blue Jackets will be happy with their return. Assuming Columbus brings back the same tandem next year, Ivanov will likely begin the 2026-27 campaign with the AHL’s Cleveland Monsters and will likely be in a backup role to newly signed Pheonix Copley. On the other hand, if things with the Blue Jackets don’t turn out to his liking, Ivanov can wait for his two-year deal to expire, and return back home to Russia.