Avs sign F Nikolai Kovalenko to 2-year deal

(Photo credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)
The Colorado Avalanche signed Nikolai Kovalenko, a top prospect, to a two-year entry-level contract on Tuesday.

Kovalenko, 23, is expected to continue to play for Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod in the Kontinental Hockey League in the 2023-24 season.

Last season with the Russian club, Kovalenko recorded career highs in goals (21), assists (33), points (54) and games played (56).