Stunning details exposed in Canucks’ waiver decision

Vitali Kravtsov’s time in North America has officially come to an end.

The 25-year-old winger cleared unconditional waivers on Wednesday, leading to the termination of his one-year, two-way deal with the Vancouver Canucks.

What caught both fans and the team off guard, however, was that Kravtsov already had another contract lined up overseas.

Over the summer, Canucks GM Patrik Allvin brought Kravtsov back from the KHL on a one-year, two-way deal in hopes of giving him another shot in North America. The plan was for Kravtsov to start strong in the American Hockey League, rebuild his confidence, and work his way back to the NHL roster.

It didn’t happen.

In ten games with Abbotsford, Kravtsov managed just four points despite being given a top-six role and every opportunity to produce. When frustration grew, so did his desire to leave.

On Tuesday, Vancouver placed him on unconditional waivers for the purpose of contract termination, and by Wednesday, it was clear why.

According to Rick Dhaliwal of Donnie & Dhali, Kravtsov is expected to sign a three-year deal with KHL club Traktor Chelyabinsk, the same team he’s spent most of his career with.

According to CHEK-TV's Rick Dhaliwal, Kravtsov is re-signing with Traktor Chelyabinsk, the team in the Russia's heartland where Kravtsov spent the past two seasons. In Russia, he showed great offensive ability." Patrick Johnston of The Province reported.

He’s already appeared in 288 games for Traktor, posting 160 points (81 goals, 79 assists) and a plus-13 rating.

For the Canucks, it’s another chapter closed. For Kravtsov, it’s a return to the place that always felt like home — and likely the end of his NHL story.