Klim Kostin Returns to KHL's Avangard Omsk, Ending Oilers Reunion Hopes

Klim Kostin, a former St. Louis Blues first-round pick, has officially signed with Avangard Omsk of the KHL for the remainder of the 2025-26 season, definitively ending any hopes of rejoining the Edmonton Oilers. The 26-year-old forward returns to the organization where he won a Gagarin Cup in 2021, having previously spent part of the 2020-21 season on loan with Omsk, tallying 18 points in 43 games and 9 playoff points during their championship run. After a career season with the Oilers in 2022-23 (11 goals, 21 points in 57 games), he was traded to the Red Wings in 2023 and then to the San Jose Sharks midway through his first season with Detroit. His contract expired this offseason, and the Sharks had no interest in retaining him. Unable to find an NHL team, Kostin, who publicly expressed a desire to rejoin the Oilers, has now returned to Russia. Omsk GM Alexei Sopin welcomed him back, noting renegotiated terms and his ability to play in any situation. Kostin finished his NHL career with 25 goals and 53 points in 190 games.