Nikita Soshnikov looking to join Maple Leafs as early as next season
David W Cerny / Reuters
Nikita Soshnikov sees an opportunity to make an immediate impact with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Russian forward - who signed an entry-level deal with the team on Friday - appears set to make the jump to North America as early as next season due to the Leafs' apparent need for quality players.
More Soshnikov: 'I could stay in the #KHL for another year, but #TML are going to rebuild so there's a good chance to make the roster'
— Igor Eronko (@IgorEronko) March 21, 2015
Soshnikov added it's been a longtime dream of his to play in the NHL, and said the Maple Leafs first approached him with an offer a month ago.
The 21-year-old has appeared in 57 games for the KHL's Atlant club, posting 14 goals and 18 assists.