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Dmitri Buchelnikov skating with HC Vityaz. (Photo credit: HC Vityaz)

Red Wings’ Buchelnikov Expresses Readiness for AHL Transition

Originally posted on The Hockey Writers
By Alessandro Seren Rosso | Last updated Apr 13, 2025 1:15 PM ET

Many were surprised when, back at the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, the Detroit Red Wings used their second-round pick to select Russian forward Dmitry Buchelnikov with the 52nd overall pick. That’s quite a high pick for a player who was overlooked just one year before. Since then, the forward has developed nicely in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), and this season was a breakout, with 53 points (15 goals and 38 assists) in 63 regular-season games for his new team, Vityaz Moscow Region, one of the weakest teams in the Western Conference.

In this translated interview, Buchelnikov talks about his plans with the Red Wings and playing in the American Hockey League (AHL), his progress in the KHL, his chemistry with US forward Derek Barach, and much more.

** You can read Buchelnikov’s interview in his native Russian by Rustam Imamov on championat.ru here **

This season has been a breakthrough for Buchelnikov. It must have been strange for the player, as the team isn’t in the best position, but his personal stats have improved significantly. “Honestly, I don’t really focus on personal stats that much,” Buchelnikov says. “I mean, I don’t think about them too often. We have a good team, and it’s great that I can help with goals and assists through my play. It’s a nice feeling, but I’m not the only one on this team doing the work. There are guys blocking shots, killing penalties – that’s just as important. Every player on our team is valuable in their own way, not just the ones who score goals.”

The forward had quite the progress for Vityaz, surpassing the 50-point mark for the first time in his career. “I’m not sure about what changed,” he says. “I just try to find inspiration in the game and my teammates. My motivation is off the charts – I want to prove myself and show my level.”

Buchelnikov on His Possible Move

Buchelnikov admitted not thinking about his future, but also that the Red Wings talked with him during the season. “I’ve heard from them a couple of times,” he explains. “They have a Russian scout, and we talk sometimes. We discuss certain aspects of my game, and he might call to ask about some young players. I share my thoughts. That’s about it. I don’t watch their games; the broadcasts are too late for our time zone, so just goal highlights and clips in the morning during breakfast.”

Naturally, the forward is interested in playing in the NHL. “How could I not? Everyone understands that the NHL is a special league. The best players in the world are there, and it’s every kid’s dream to play at least a season there. Or even just one game.” The Red Wings were home to several remarkable Russian players, but many of them also failed to make an impression there. Buchelnikov admits to have no fear. “I’m not worried at all. If it didn’t work out for them, then maybe it will for me!”

Dmitri Buchelnikov, HC Vityaz (Photo credit: HC Vityaz)

He also seems to be ready to pay his dues in the minors, should he need so. “I’m ready for anything, for any challenge. Playing in the AHL is not a problem for me – if I have to play for the farm team, then so be it.”

Buchelnikov Finding Chemistry at Home

Buchelnikov started the season playing with New York-born Derek Barach and former San Jose Sharks prospect Ivan Chekhovich, and the line was tearing up the league. Then, Chekhovich went down with an injury. “Everything is going great,” Buchelnikov confirms. “Alexei Makeyev has stepped in really well for Chekhovich. He played at a high level then and continues to do so now, showing solid hockey. Even though he’s a veteran, he’s very experienced and intelligent, and it’s a pleasure to play alongside him. We have great on-ice chemistry.”

If going along well with other fellow Russian players is something to be expected, Buchenlikov’s chemistry with Barach surprised many. “Of course, we communicate in English. In terms of hockey, we’re similar types of players—we think alike, we see the game the same way, and we understand what needs to be done on the ice. It’s really rewarding to see how well things are clicking. And I never forget that he’s a foreign player with his own background and experience. Playing alongside him helps me grow as a person. I’m also learning the language and constantly getting real practice with a native speaker, which helps me progress in that area too. It’s a great experience.”

Dmitri Buchelnikov, HC Vityaz (Photo credit: HC Vityaz)

Buchelnikov also admits to be learning English eyeing a possible move overseas. “That’s part of it,” he admits once again. “It’s always good not to have a language barrier, whether it is for hockey or just traveling abroad on vacation and being able to communicate freely without needing help. You don’t have to worry about saying something wrong by accident… It’s just an important life skill to have.”

Progress Is Everything

The forward is a good example of a player who worked hard and progressed year after year. He knows the secret. “I think I’ve become more confident—more composed,” he says. “Every goal, every point builds that confidence. When I see my teammates getting open, why not make a great pass for a goal? And if I have the better position, I’ll take the shot myself. I probably have a better overall understanding of the game now. Of course, it’s never just about me—it’s the whole team, the linemates I skate with. You can’t do much alone against five opponents. Hockey is a team sport.”

Naturally, considering the impact he has on the game, he’s often targeted during the games. But Buchelnikov is ready. “To be honest, everything is pretty much standard. If they’re hitting you, it means they respect you. They’ve noticed you, they recognize your game.”

Considering how he progressed, his game is ready to be recognized even in other leagues. Buchelnikov’s contract in Russia runs through May 2026—just one year from now.