Promising Young NHLer Signs Long-Term in Switzerland

PUBLICATION

Wade Messier
July 18, 2023 (2:15 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

Would you look at that, another promising young hockey player has left the NHL in favor of Europe. This time, the player leaving is departing after a tenure in the Maple Leafs organization.

Who is Malgin?

Denis Malgin was once a very promising prospect drafted by the Florida Panthers. The Swiss and Russian player grew up playing in Switzerland for the ZSC Lions before making the jump to North America in 2016.

Since then, Malgin has spent time in the Florida Panthers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Colorado Avalanche organizations. He also spent the entire 2021-22 season with ZSC before returning to Toronto. Although he no longer holds the value he once did, Malgin has proven to be an effective NHL player with some potential left.

Despite Malgin leaving the Leafs organization during the 2021-22 season, even signing a four-year deal to be back in Switzerland, he had the contract voided so he could return this past season. Toronto traded him to Colorado early this year, and while he had moderate success, Colorado decided not to extend his contract.

Malgin heads Back to Switzerland

It was reported today that Malgin had agreed to a five-year deal with ZSC, starting this coming season. It's rare that we see contracts of this length in European pro leagues, especially from someone coming fresh off of a stint in the NHL.

Denis Malgin signed a 5-year contract with ZSC Lions today to return to the Swiss league.

Malgin had signed a 4-year deal with the team in 2021 but left the final 3 seasons on the table to come back to the NHL this past season

Malgin notched 21 points in 65 games this year, which is better than some players who routinely earn NHL deals. While he could be returning to Switzerland for any number of reasons, we doubt it's because he couldn't find an NHL job.

Perhaps Malgin prefers to play in his home country, or the security of a five-year deal was more enticing than an NHL offer. Whatever the reason be, we're sad to see him go. Maybe when his deal is up, we'll see Malgin in the NHL again.

As Seen on Markerzone - Young NHLer Signs Five-Year Deal in Europe