The Reading Royals have acquired defenseman Artyom Kulakov from the Allen Americans in exchange for future considerations. Kulakov, 22, put up five goals and eight assists for 13 points in 49 games last season. The 6’2, 216lb defenseman will add some grit for the Royals on the backend. The Royals have also signed Kulakov for the 2025-26 season, bringing their roster to four defensemen and 12 players for next season. He is the second new defenseman to join the Royals for next season, along with rookie Jack Page.
The Russian defenseman returns to the North Division after beginning his career with the Worcester Railers at the end of the 2022-23 season. In 68 games with Worcester, he would put up five goals and nine assists for 14 points. He was traded to Allen right before the start of the 2024-25 season, but spent training camp with the Railers.
“Artyom is a physical defensemen who takes a lot of pride in defending and shutting down the opposition,” stated Anthony Peters, Head Coach & General Manager. “He loves the game and is extremely excited to be a Reading Royal. We will look to him to be very hard to play against and continue to develop his game. We are very happy to have him as a Royal.”
Head Coach Anthony Peters on the acquistion of Kulakov (Via Reading Royals Press Release)
Kulakov began his junior career in Russia, playing one season in the MHL. In 29 games with Omskie Yastreby, he had four goals and eight assists for 12 points. After just one season in the MHL, Kulakov would head to the OHL to join the Erie Otters. In 102 games with the Otters, he put up five goals and 11 assists for 16 points. During his time in Erie, he was coached by Reading’s new assistant coach, Wes Wolfe. It will be interesting to see if the chemistry between those heading into both of their first seasons with the Royals.
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