Evgeni Nabakov

Evgeni Nabakov was born on July 25th 1975 in Ust-Kamenogorsk U.S.S.R, which is now Kazakhstan. Nabakov’s career in the NHL began in 1994, when he was selected in the ninth round of the NHL entry draft. This is a draft selection that occurs in the off season. There are 11 rounds in total and allows amateur players to be selected for professional teams.

Nabakov was spotted when San Jose Sharks head coach, Tim burke made a trip to Russia. Upon seeing Nabakov play he immediately inquired as to who owned his playing rights. Burke was pleased when he found out the Nabakov belonged to no one. Nabakov played in the AHL for three years, then in 1997 singed a contract for the NHL.

Nabakov’s first NHL game was played on the very first day of the new millennium. As a goalie, he performed very well. He stopped all four shots made against him when he replaced the serving goalie Steve Shields.

On January 19th 2000, Nabakov was the starting goalie for the first time. He faced the Colorado Avalanche and famed goalie Patrick Roy. Nabakov gave an outstanding performance stopping all 39 goals that came his way and holding the avalanche to a 0-0 tie. Nabakov continued this level in his next four games, stopping 103/104 goals made.

The 2001 season proved to be very lucky for Nabakov. The staring goalie, Steve Sheilds suffered and ankle injury forcing him to give up play. The San Jose Sharks put Nabakov into the starting position. Nabakov rose to the challenge winning rookie of the year and taking the sharks to the play offs.

In 2002 Nabakov became the first goalie in history to score a power play goal. His progress continued and his play level increased over the next few years. Nabakov was and still is considered one of the top 10 goalies of the NHL. In 2005 however, Nabakov suffered a groin injury. This affected his play and made that season one of his worst. He was forced to split the starting goalie position to the up and coming Vesa Toskala.

Despite his injury and fluctuating playing ability, the San Jose Sharks signed Nabakov to a further 4 year contract. The also included a no trade clause to keep the goal tender with them. Nabakov continues to play for them currently. He has made many contributions to the NHL and the sport of hockey. In 2006 he competed in the 2006 winter Olympics in Turin, Italy, where he represented his home country of Kazakhstan.
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