It has looked to be coming for some time. Now it is official. Defenseman Andrei Mironov will be taking his talents to North America next season.

On Friday, the Colorado Avalanche announced that they have signed Mironov to a two-year, entry-level contract. The team selected the blueliner in the fourth round (101st overall) of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft.

Mironov has spent the last five seasons playing with the KHL’s Dynamo Moscow. Limited to 18 games due to injury, the 22-year-old had one goal and four points in 2016-17, adding another three points in nine playoff contests.

Mironov won a Gagarin Cup in 2012-13, and has played in one KHL All-Star game. He was granted his release from the KHL earlier this week.

Mironov is a physical, stay-at-home defenseman that makes a good outlet pass. He is currently playing for Russia in the World Championship.

 

Image credit: Andre Ringuette/HHOF-IIHF Images