Traktor Chelyabinsk and Chris Driedger Part Ways
In a significant move for both sides, Traktor Chelyabinsk and netminder Chris Driedger have mutually agreed to terminate their contract, an announcement made by the KHL club on Sunday. This decision follows recent news from the Winnipeg Jets franchise that their starting goaltender Connor Hellebuyck is expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks due to an injury.
Jets’ Goaltending Strategy
With Hellebuyck out of action, the Jets have opted to promote 22-year-old Thomas Milic from their AHL affiliate, the Manitoba Moose, alongside Isaac Poulter, who is being brought up from the ECHL. The Jets appear to be considering the possibility of sending Driedger to the Moose as a contingency plan should Milic and Eric Comrie struggle in net until Hellebuyck’s return.
Chris Driedger’s Performance
During his time with Traktor, Driedger has played in 23 games this season, posting an 8-9-1 record, coupled with a 3.05 goals-against average, a .917 save percentage, and one shutout. Currently, Traktor is positioned fifth in the Western Conference of the KHL, holding a record of 13-12-5.
Driedger’s Career Overview
A native of Winnipeg, Driedger’s hockey career began with junior teams like the Tri-City Americans and Calgary Hitmen in the WHL. He was selected 76th overall in the third round of the 2012 NHL Draft by the Ottawa Senators. Over the span of his professional career, which extended from 2014 to 2024, he played 67 regular-season games in the NHL, representing the Senators, Florida Panthers, and Seattle Kraken, achieving a record of 31 wins, 24 losses, and 5 overtime losses with a goals-against average of 2.45.
The Jets originally acquired Driedger from Florida in 2025, although he only made five appearances for the Moose in the AHL late in the 2024-25 season. His international experience includes being a key player for Canada at the 2022 IIHF World Championship in Finland, where he contributed to the team winning a silver medal.
Other League News
In other league news, Spencer Martin, another former NHL goaltender, frequently faced challenges during his brief stint with CSKA Moscow, ending his career in the KHL after just 14 games.
Meanwhile, prospect Viktor Klingsell has been making waves in Sweden’s U20 league and recently made his debut in the SHL, catching attention for both his exceptional performance and protective gear choices, specifically a full fishbowl helmet.
