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Carolina Hurricanes Lose Goalie to KHL Giant in Surprising Move

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jul 4, 2025 2:49 PM ET

The Carolina Hurricanes have lost one of their goalies to a giant of a team in the KHL, which was a very surprising move to many fans and analysts alike.

Former Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Spencer Martin is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in his career.

The 30-year-old goaltender has officially signed a two-year contract with one of the giants of the KHL, CSKA Moscow, marking his first venture into overseas play. This decision comes as the Hurricanes have really fortified their goaltending lineup.

This KHL transition represents not only a fresh start but also an opportunity to refine his skills on a different stage.

After a challenging 2024-25 season with the Hurricanes, where he posted a horrendous .846 save percentage and a 3.89 goals-against average over nine starts, the move to Russia could provide the environment he needs to regain his form.

The Hurricanes have solid goalies in their pipes, leading to Martin's exit

The Hurricanes have established goaltenders Frederik Andersen and Pyotr Kochetkov in their crease, along with the newly signed Cayden Primeau. Carolina's net is well-equipped for the upcoming season.

While Martin embarks on this new adventure in Russia, the door to the NHL remains a crack open. Should he do well in the KHL, there may be opportunities to return to North America one day down the road.

His experience overseas could provide invaluable insights and growth, possibly leading to a resurgence in his career, and maybe that could lead certain NHL teams to take notice.

As the NHL landscape continues to evolve, Martin's journey to CSKA Moscow not only reflects his personal ambitions but also underscores the ever-evolving nature of professional hockey.

Players constantly seek new opportunities to grow and succeed when it appears they can no longer do so elsewhere. The machine never stops turning.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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