Alexander Galaysha Makes KHL Debut

The GMHL would like to congratulate Alexander Galaysha on his KHL debut with Yugra Khanty-Mansiysk. Alexander is a 6'4", 200lbs goaltender born in 1991 from Astana, Kazahkstan. He holds citizenship's in Russia and his home country.

In the GMHL, Galaysha suited up in the for the Jamestown Jets in the 2010-11 season. After graduating from the Jets, Galaysha landed a back-up role on Mytischi Atlanti to play in Russia's top junior league, the MHL.

Galaysha found a starting job with Mamonty Yugry mid-way through last season and was able to record a respectable 2.74GAA and .894SV%. Alexander was re-signed to another junior contract with Mamonty Yugry for this season. However, due to injuries on Mamonty's KHL affiliate, Yugra Khanty-Mansiysk, he has been given a shot with the big club.

After training with the KHL club for most of this season, Alexander finally saw ice in relief of Yugra's starting goalie. Alexander stopped every puck thrown his way in his first professional game.

Alexander is the second of the GMHL alumni to reach the KHL; the first being former Bradford Rattler Artoym Podshendyalov. Making it to professional hockey is no small feat, let alone making a professional debut in Europe's top league during a locked-out NHL season.

Several of the GMHL's current players and alumni are prospects for the KHL. The following are prospects from the GMHL who have been drafted to KHL clubs:

Maxim Zverev - Shelburne Red Wings (10/11) -  Drafted Rd.2 #34 Overall by Severstal Cherepovets in the 2010 KHL Entry Draft
Alexander Nikulnikov -  Shelburne Red Wings (10/11) - Drafted Rd.3 #67 Overall by Barys Astana in the 2011 KHL Entry Draft
Nikolai Skladnichenko  - Bobcaygeon Bucks (09-11) -  Drafted Rd.5 #101 Overall by Barys Astana in the 2011 KHL Entry Draft
Daniel Semyan – Shelburne Red Wings (10/11) - Drafted Rd.7 #174 Overall by Barys Astana in the KHL Entry Draft

On behalf of the GMHL, congratulations Alexander on your KHL debut!