Flames Talk Yan Kuznetsov on Settling in as an NHLer!
Jan 27, 2026
Yan Kuznetsov, a Calgary Flames defenseman who developed in Russia and North America, shares his early NHL adjustment and life at team events. He talks about skating with stars like Ovechkin and Malkin. He recalls playing with former Wranglers teammates, learning from MacKenzie Weegar, and adapting to English and junior hockey after moving from Murmansk.
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First-Time Poker Tournament Experience
- Yan Kuznetsov described his first-time experience at the Flames Ambassadors Celebrity Poker Tournament and said he's having a blast meeting people.
- He admitted he isn't a big card player and has had only modest success so far but is enjoying the event vibe.
Daily Dream Of Playing In The NHL
- Yan says every day in the NHL is a dream come true and that he enjoys learning from the best players.
- He emphasized how hard it is to describe his happiness and appreciation for the experience.
Crowd Size Surprised Him
- Yan found NHL crowds larger and wilder than he expected, especially on the road.
- He singled out the Dome, Bell Centre, and Pittsburgh as standout atmospheres and said there are no bad crowds.