ECHL: Andrei Bakanov Stays Put with Norfolk Admirals

The Norfolk Admirals have announced that they’ve re-signed forward Andrei Bakanov for the 2025-26 season. Bakanov, 23, had 14 goals and seven assists for 21 points last season in 55 games with five different teams. During his time in Norfolk, he put up eight goals and three assists for 11 points in 17 games with the Admirals. Bakanov proved to be an important piece for Norfolk last season and will look to be a big part of their offense next season. He’s the 12 forward and 18th player to sign with Norfolk for the 2025-26 season.

The Russian forward began his professional career at home, spending two seasons in the KHL. He spent his first season with the Kunlun Red Stars, where he put up four goals and an assist for four points in 32 games. The following year, he would play both in the KHL and MHL. In 35 games in the KHL with HC Sochi, he had three goals and an assist for four points in 24 games. He had two goals and two assists for four points in 11 games in the MHL with Kapitan Stupino.

“Andrei Bakanov came in last season and supplied versatility with his big body,” said Jeff Carr, Admirals General Manager & Head Coach. “He also utilized his speed and willingness on landing and staying in front of the net. This is a big year of freedom for him, and not thinking in his game. He just needs to go play (the game), which will give way to his greatest strengths: speed and bending edges.”

Head Coach Jeff Carr on the signing of Bakanov

Bakanov would begin his North American career in the AHL, where he played in 18 games with the Springfield Thunderbirds. He also has spent four seasons in the ECHL, where he’s put up 33 goals and 26 assists for 59 points in 152 games.

Junior Career

Prior to beginning his career in Russia, Bakanov played two years of junior hockey in North America. He spent his first season in the USHL with the Cedar Rapids Rough Riders, where he put up five goals and nine assists for 14 points in 51 games. He also appeared in six playoff games with the Rough Riders. Bakanov spent the following year in the OHL, where he put up 11 goals and 12 assists for 23 points with the Guelph Storm.