As a talented young goaltending prospect coming up through the ranks of Russian hockey in the VHL and KHL, Artur Akhtyamov has shown a lot of promise over the last few years. Selected 106th overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2020 NHL Draft, the young Russian tender finally signed his entry-level contract in the summer of 2023.
The 23-year-old has made his way across the Atlantic to play hockey in North America for the first time and has already made a strong impression. In his first six games with the AHL's Toronto Marlies, Akhtyamov won five times and posted a .926 save percentage.
“I wouldn’t say I was very nervous before my AHL debut,” Akhtyamov said in an interview with RG. “I was more nervous before the first preseason game. By the time the regular season began, I already understood the style of play, so it was easier. There was still some nervousness, but I think that helped me.”
Akhtyamov admitted he was excited to see stars like Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and John Tavares at the Maple Leafs’ training camp.
Akhtyamov had an outstanding 2022-23 season in the VHL (Russia's second-tier professional league), with a .943 save percentage and six shutouts. He also recorded shutouts in both of his playoff victories. The following season, he was named the VHL's top goaltender with a .927 save percentage.
As his contract expired in Russia, the Leafs understandably pounced at the opportunity to sign him in July 2023. However, he was ultimately loaned back to Ak Bars of the KHL for the 2023-24 season for more development, which resulted in a strong showing in the KHL.
Now, he’s 100% committed to the cause in Toronto and even came over early to get in some practices with his new teammates.
“When I went to Toronto this summer, I had no specific expectations. I went there to pursue a dream,” Akhtyamov said. “I was curious to see how everything works, what kind of hockey they play, and what the people are like. My initial goal was to break through, work hard, and wait for an opportunity.”
In the summer, Ak Bars general manager Marat Valiullin mentioned that Akhtyamov could return to Russia again if things didn’t work out in Canada. However, the young goalie insists he isn’t thinking about that.
“I don’t want to think about returning now,” Akhtyamov said.
“I’m grateful to Ak Bars for that, but I want to try my luck here. I’m ready to spend the whole season in the AHL. I’m just starting, and I’m still learning the process. It’s fine if I spend the entire season with the Marlies. The most important thing is to play as many games as possible.”
The Marlies have a unique situation this season, with three goalies on the roster: Akhtyamov, Dennis Hildeby, and Matt Murray.
“We have three equal goalies, and I think we have a strong team,” Akhtyamov said. “Right now, we’re all playing equal time. All of us need to work on earning more trust. The only downside is having to rotate during practice. Sometimes, you want to get more work in. But we have a great team.”
Despite the internal competition, the young goaltender is taking it all in and trying to learn from his teammates as he continues trying to strive for the NHL.
“Matt Murray is a Stanley Cup champion. You can talk to him about a lot of things, and you can learn a lot from him. It’s great to have that level of competition — it only makes you stronger. Murray doesn’t offer advice unless you approach him, but if you ask him, he’ll calmly explain things and show you. He’s an open-minded and approachable person. I’ve already asked him for tips several times and learned a lot.”
Daria went to St. Petersburg State University and earned a bachelor of international journalism. Working as a sports journalist from 2014, from 2016 as a hockey journalist. Covered 5 World Championships, 2022 Winter Olympics, 2020 World Juniors, 6 Gagarin Cup Finals.
Owner of a telegram channel Coolest Game on Earth.
Integrative nutritionist specializing on sports nutritionology.
