Detroit Red Wings prospect avoids North American arrival: Signs 4 years in Russia

The Detroit Red Wings selected prospect Nikita Tyurin in the fifth round of the 2025 NHL Draft, 140th overall.

The prospect isn't one we'd deem NHL-ready, as he has plenty of development to go through.

Given the typical nature of prospects to turn pro when the choice becomes available, it seems inevitable for someone like Tyurin, who has decided to stay in Russia.

He opted to sign with his MHL club, HC Spartak Moscow, for the next four year in Russia, giving the defenseman more time to develop his skills and game.

The 6-foot-tall defenseman, weighing 187 pounds, helped his team (JHC Spartak) make a run to the Kharlamov Cup last season. In the junior leagues, he scored a total of 30 points (6-24) in 75 games with Spartak Moscow's junior affiliate.

He has established himself as Spartak's most promising defenseman in the juniors.

The 6-foot defenseman has proven himself capable of being a reliable producer. In 50 MHL games, he scored 20 points (4-16) as Spartak's second-highest scoring defender.

This is while being utilized at 18 minutes a game per night, as the coaching staff is showing signs of trust in his play.

His skillful, mature play earned him a trip to the MHL All-Star Game, a gold medal at the Challenge Cup, and a trip to the KHL for one game, debuting for Spartak last season.

Tyurin has some time left in Russia, as he feels the deal will benefit himself and the Red Wings. He can continue to fill out his sizeable frame, gaining experience on the ice, and could find himself playing in both the MHL and KHL the next four seasons.