Nail Yakupov gearing up for NHL comeback but there's a twist

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Axel Williams
August 10, 2024 (9:38)

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Nail Yakupov is heavily considered to be one of the worst first-overall picks in the history of the NHL.

He was selected by the Edmonton Oilers, and he squandered his opportunity pretty fast. Yakupov got a second chance with the Colorado Avalanche, but that didn't go so well either. In the end, Yakupov finished his NHL career with 350 games played and just 62 goals.

For the last six years, Yakupov has been playing over in the KHL. However, according to The Mug, it seems like the Russian-born star is looking to make a comeback. Insiders believe he is going to sign a PTO with an NHL team prior to training camp. However, the one caveat here is that he is still willing to go back to the KHL. Nothing is guaranteed right now.

"In regards to the Nail Yakupov rumours as of late, continue to hear he may sign an NHL PTO closer to training camp.

However, a return to the KHL İs NOT out of the question just yet."

Recently, Yakupov was seen working out with Andrei Svechnikov which could prove to be another sign that his NHL aspirations are strong. However, only time will tell whether or not he is able to get that PTO. There are a lot of teams who are probably going to be quick to pass on him.

Do you believe Nail Yakupov can get back into the NHL? Let us know in the poll down below. Additionally, stay tuned to Hockey Unplugged for the latest news and updates from around the hockey world.

Source: The Mug NHL
Nail Yakupov looking to return to the NHL