Report: Stan Galiev heading to Russia, KHL
In an interview with Championat, Stan Galiev says he will be heading to Russia in attempt to play for the Russian National Team in the 2018 Olympics.
“The decision to return to Russia, I received primarily from a desire to get into the team and play in the Olympics,” Galiev said to Dmitry Erykalov of Championat. In addition, I realized that after five years in [Washington’s] system, it’s time to change something.”
Galiev said the same thing during Hershey’s exit interview day at the end of the season. “I just need a good opportunity. Last year was tough to be in the lineup once per week. It takes your game away, and you don’t have much confidence.” The 25-year-old had only played 26 NHL games for the Capitals in parts of two seasons, never able to find a stable spot at the NHL level.
During his 161 games with Hershey, Galiev scored 52 and 95 points over parts of five seasons with the Chocolate and White. Galiev also was a part of the 2013 ECHL Kelly Cup Champion Reading Royals.
Galiev had a few spectacular moments as a Bear, including this amazing goal during a preseason game in Lehigh Valley back in 2014:
