Sergei Mozyakin

Russia has produced some of the greatest hockey players of all time. Alexander Ovechkin tops the list. Other modern stars included Sergei Fedorov, Pavel Bure and Nikita Kucherov, among many others. And then there are the old Soviet guard, with names like Vladislav Tretiak and Valeri Kharlamov from the 70s and Igor Larionov, Sergei Makarov and Viacheslav Fetisov in the 80s.

Sergei Mozyakin is not a name that most North American fans know much about, but his impact on Russian hockey cannot be overstated. His skill, consistency, and dedication to the sport have made him a beloved figure among fans and a highly respected player within the Russian hockey community. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest Russian players in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).

Mozyakin began his professional career in the Russian Superleague (RSL) with several Moscow based teams including CSKA, Khimik and Atlant.  He quickly established himself as a prolific goal scorer, showcasing his skill, hockey sense, and accurate shot. After the RSL folded, he continued with Metallurg Magnitogorsk when it joined the newly formed Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) in 2008.

Throughout his career, Mozyakin has been known for his offensive prowess and ability to put the puck in the net. He has consistently been one of the top scorers in the KHL, regularly leading the league in goals and points. His offensive skills include his accurate shot, quick release, and strong positioning around the net.

Mozyakin has spent the majority of his professional career with Metallurg Magnitogorsk, becoming an icon and franchise player for the team. He has helped lead the team to multiple championships, including the Gagarin Cup, which is awarded to the KHL playoff champion, in 2014 and 2016.

In addition to his success in the KHL, Mozyakin has represented Russia internationally on several occasions. He has competed in numerous World Championships, winning gold medals in 2008 and 2009, as well as a gold medal at the 2018 Olympics. 

Despite his impressive achievements, Mozyakin never competed in the National Hockey League (NHL), choosing to remain in Russia throughout his career. He did play four games with Val D'or in the the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League as a teenager. He was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets 263rd overall in 2002, but otherwise never came close to coming to North America.

Over the years, Mozyakin has set several records in the KHL. He holds the record for the most goals scored in a single season, with 48 goals in the 2016-2017 season. He had eight RSL/KHL scoring titles and ranks as the league's all-time leading scorer with over 1000 points

His place among the all time Russian hockey greats is secure, even though most NHL fans know nothing about him.