Sharks place Nikolai Knyzhov on unconditional waivers for a buyout

The team from the Calfironia’s bay area is clearing up a roster spot, and some cap space.

On Saturday, the San Jose Sharks placed defenseman Nikolai Knyzhov on unconditional waivers for the purpose of a buyout.

Knyzhov has been with the Sharks since signing as a free agent in July 2019. The Russian defender went undrafted, but had size that made him a potential prospect. After splitting his rookie season between the Sharks and their American Hockey League affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda, Knyzhov played the entire 2020-21 season in the NHL. However, a string of lower-body injuries, and a torn Achilles tendon kept him out for all of 2021-22, and most of the following campaign.

He was back to a full bill of health this past season, but he played just 10 games with the Sharks, registering one assist. In 40 games with the Barracuda, Knyzhov potted three goals and 11 assists.

The former Phoenix Jr. Coyote has one year remaining on the two-year deal he signed in March 2023. Knyzhov’s deal carries a $1.25 million cap hit. If he clears on Sunday, he will be bought out. The buyout will span over the next two seasons, costing the Sharks $316,667 next year, with another $466,667 going against San Jose’s cap for the 2025-26 season.

In 81 career NHL appearances, he scored three goals and nine assists with a plus/minus of -29. In 92 games in the AHL, the Kemerovo native registered four goals and 17 assists, with a +6 rating.

Knyzhov played 19 games for the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League during the 2015-16 season, also spending time in the North American Hockey League. He returned to Russia in 2017, playing for St. Petersburg’s VHL and MHL teams. He played three games with SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL during the 2018-19 season. Knyzhov also represented his country at the 2018 IIHF World Junior Championship, playing in five games for Team Russia.