Former Buck Scores First KHL Goal

The GMHL and Bobcaygeon Bucks would like to congratulate Nikolai Skladnichenko on his first KHL goal.

Nikolai played with the Bucks for two seasons back in 2009-10 and 2010-11. In his final GMHL season Skladnichenko finished fifth in team scoring with 50 points (25g, 25a) in just 42 games. He was just 15 years old the first time he suited up in the GMHL.

While playing in Bobcaygeon, Nikolai caught the eye of the KHL team Barys Astana who drafted him in the in the 4th round #101 Overall in the KHL Entry draft. Barys Astana took special interest in the GMHL that season, also drafting and signing Alexander Nikulnikov from the Shelburne Red Wings in the third round of that draft.

Nikolai spent the first portion of this season in Russia’s top junior league but has now found himself on Metallurg Novokuznetsk’s roster.

What makes Nikolai’s goal special is the fact that he is only 18 years of age. Nikolai is the third youngest player in the KHL to reach the score sheet.  A feat not to be over-looked, especially during a locked-out NHL season.

Nikolai joins a growing list of alumni who are making their professional hockey debuts. Earlier this season, goaltender Alexander Galaysha (Jamestown Jets) also played in the KHL.

Sean Werth, GMHL Staff