Three years ago, the Detroit Red Wings drafted Russian forward Dmitri Buchelnikov with the 52nd overall pick. In just three seasons, he’s quickly become one of the most exciting forwards in the KHL, putting up 83 points in 120 games. The Red Wings, who currently sport a -21 goal differential, hope to add some additional scoring to future lineups. Buchelnikov might just be that solution.
Questions around when – or if – Buchelnikov, 21, could head to North America have followed the forward since draft day. This week, Nadezhda Tonkonog of Sport24 interviewed Buchelnikov about his time with his new hockey club and when fans could potentially see him in North America.
“It all depends on my game, how I will perform,” Buchelnikov said. “If I understand that I am approaching this level, that I can compete and, most importantly, win this competition, then, of course, I will think about it. But now I’m in Russia, I still have a year of contract, and I just have to think about getting into the top 6 here and showing everything with my play.”
This quote suggests that Buchelnikov will test the waters closer to the 2026-27 season. But, with that in mind, what does the future hold in store for Buchelnikov?
Buchelnikov and the Red Wings Remain in Communication
“We spoke probably two months ago,” Buchelnikov continued. “We talked about the season, what I will do in the summer….we always communicate with Nikolai Vakurov, their Russian scout, and are in touch. And not only about hockey, about life.” Buchelnikov mentioned that he’d been invited to training camp last season, but could not attend to due to scheduling conflicts.
When asked about Yzerman, Buchelnikov had great things to say: “When I stood talking to such a legend, my knees almost shook…I think all of us watched [The Russian Five]. But this is through the TV, and seeing it live is worth a lot.”
It’s not easy to get one from Dmitry Buchelnikov.#KHLMoments pic.twitter.com/Sbtf6qNExK
— KHL (@khl_eng) July 9, 2025
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In an interview with Championat, Buchelnikov expressed his willingness to play in North America under any circumstances. “I am ready for anything, for any challenges,” Buchelnikov said when asked about playing for the Grand Rapids Griffins. “This is not a problem for me, I will need to play for a farm club – which means it’s necessary.”
Patience is Key for Buchelnikov, Red Wings
With that in mind, though, the Red Wings will have to wait in order to see Buchelnikov on North American ice. Buchelnikov signed a two-year contract extension in 2024. As far as next season goes, it doesn’t appear that Buchelnikov
Having said that, KHL teams have been known to let players go early for the right price. Ivan Demidov of the Montreal Canadiens bought out Demidov’s contract two months early in order for the forward to join the team for the playoffs. Matvei Michkov of the Philadelphia Flyers was released from his contract in order to head to the NHL. A move is certainly possible — but it will require all parties to be on the same page, Buchelnikov included.
Fortunately for Red Wings fans, the flashy forward appears excited to test the waters of North America. “Who doesn’t want to play in the NHL? I think this is almost everyone’s dream.”
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