Alexandar Georgiev's NHL career is reportedly coming to a close. Just a year after being traded by the Avalanche, the 29-year-old goaltender is on waivers, planning to terminate his contract with the Buffalo Sabres. According to HockeyNewsHub, Georgiev is expected to return to the KHL and sign with Spartak.
This sudden decline in Georgiev's fortunes is remarkable. Just 18 months ago, he was a key player for Colorado in the 2024 Stanley Cup playoffs, starting in the second round against the Dallas Stars. The Avs' playoff run included a memorable five-game series victory over Vezina Trophy winner Connor Hellebuyck.
However, the following season took a turn for the worse. Georgiev's performance was historically poor, leading to a series of trades. On November 30, the Avalanche traded backup goalie Justus Annunen to Nashville for Scott Wedgewood, aiming to reduce the workload on Georgiev. Just 10 days later, Georgiev was traded to San Jose, bringing Mackenzie Blackwood to Colorado.
Despite his impressive resume, Georgiev struggled to secure an NHL contract until late in the offseason, when the Sabres signed him to a one-year deal worth slightly more than the league minimum. During training camp, he couldn't establish himself and was assigned to the Sabres' AHL team. Georgiev now finds himself at the bottom of the depth chart, playing behind Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Devon Levi, Alex Lyon, and waiver claim Colten Ellis.
Over his NHL career, Georgiev has made 288 starts with the Avs, Sharks, and New York Rangers. His record stands at 151-108-26, with a .903 save percentage. Georgiev's two full seasons in Colorado were particularly notable, with 78 wins and 124 starts in 164 games.
