Alexander Mogilny, a trailblazer for Russian players in the NHL, has been elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025.
Drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in 1988, Mogilny made history the following year by defecting from the Soviet Union, a daring move that helped pave the way for other Russian stars to join the league.
Mogilny debuted with the Sabres in 1989 at age 20 and quickly established himself as an elite scorer. In 1992-93, he recorded a franchise-record 76 goals in 77 games, finishing with 127 points, second only to linemate Pat LaFontaine. Over his 16-season career with Buffalo, Vancouver, New Jersey, and Toronto, he tallied 1,032 points and won a Stanley Cup with the Devils in 2000.
His induction comes in his 17th year of eligibility. Mogilny joins fellow 2025 inductees Zdeno Chara, Joe Thornton, Duncan Keith, Jennifer Botterill, Brianna Decker, Jack Parker, and Daniele Sauvageau. He becomes the 14th player with ties to the Sabres to be honored.
Mogilny, already a member of the Sabres Hall of Fame, is also part of the “Triple Gold Club,” having captured Olympic gold, a World Championship, and a Stanley Cup.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
