Former Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Egor Zamula has yet to begin his first season in the KHL since flaming out in the NHL, but he’s already certain the fans and environment are better back home in Russia than here in North America.
In a recent interview he gave for his KHL club CSKA Moscow, the 26-year-old formerly undrafted Flyers prospect reflected on his most memorable game here in North America, as well as having to adapt to a new lifestyle.
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“My most memorable game in America was against New Jersey in an outdoor stadium. The stands were packed, about 80-90 thousand people. But the atmosphere wasn’t there like in Russia; there’s no support section with drums and chants. I think we have the best fans,” Zamula said.
The Flyers lost to the New Jersey Devils, 6-3, at MetLife Stadium back on Feb. 17, 2024, with Devils goalie Nico Daws making a record 45 saves in an outdoor game.
Zamula recorded one assist in 11:57 of ice time in the Flyers’ loss, picking up a secondary helper on Owen Tippett’s second-period goal to make the score 2-1 and get Philadelphia on the board.
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That was arguably the biggest game of Zamula’s NHL career, as the 6-foot-3 Russian defender was traded to Pittsburgh on Dec. 31, then ended up with Columbus on Jan. 6 after having his contract terminated.
The 26-year-old was on two playoff teams last season, but was cut loose by both, missed out with Columbus, and will now continue his playing career on a three-year contract with CSKA.
“I learned a lot about life in North America. I was there alone, without my family. I learned to cook, learned English, and got used to the culture,” said Zamula.
“I also learned from the coaching staff how to make quick decisions and adjusted my approach to a more defensive game.”
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With his NHL career currently on pause, Zamula scored eight goals, 33 assists, and 41 points in 168 games with the Flyers with a -12 rating, and added two assists in a 20-game cameo with Columbus to finish last season, recording a +2 rating.
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