Nikolai Kovalenko

After finding success in the KHL, including the 2023-24 campaign in which he scored 11 goals and 35 points in 42 regular-season games with Nizhny Novgorod Torpedo, Kovalenko joined the Avalanche organization, logging two goals and four points across six AHL games between the regular season and playoffs last year. Kovalenko will be in the fight for a middle-six spot with the Avalanche during training camp, and given the success he's had overseas coupled with the absence of Valeri Nichushkin (suspension) until mid-November, it's worth keeping a close eye on him. The 24-year-old Kovalenko has the potential to record over 40 points under the right circumstances next year but keep in mind that assuming he'll have that level of success is risky, especially because not everyone who does well in the KHL can make the transition to North American hockey.