Maxim Shabanov's agency address rumors of Flyers interest

In the age of social media, rumors can spread like wildfire. All it takes is one article to get the flames going.

That's exactly what happened when Russian outlet MatchTV reported last month that several teams had shown interest in upcoming KHL free agent Maxim Shabanov. The teams said to be interested were the Penguins, Islanders, Lightning, and of course, the Flyers.

That led to a flurry of excitement by Flyers fans, understandably so, as Shabanov is one of the most exciting talents in the KHL. The 24-year-old has posted back-to-back 50+ point seasons, the first player under the age of 25 to have that many points over that span. He's broken Traktor Chelyabinsk's franchise record for points in back-to-back seasons. Shabanov is second in the KHL in points.

He didn't score on the play below, but his potential for highlight reel plays and the quick movement of his hands and feet are evident. It's no surprise that he has the numbers he does with his ability to do this on the ice.

The excitement grew ever further when Sport-Express journalist Artur Khairullin reported that the Flyers were the main contender in acquiring Shabonov. Unfortunately, it turns out none of this is true.

Flyers have not spoken to Shabanov

Alexander Appleyard, a contributor for PHLY and European scout, was quick to jump on the rumors and their validity.

Shabanov is represented by Winners Hockey Agency, the same agency that represents Flyers' prospect Yegor Zavragin. Appleyard went straight to the source to dispel the rumors.

“There has been no decision made on where Maxim will play next season, and while there is NHL interest in Maxim, the Flyers are not one of the teams who have been in contact.”

Shabanov's agency added that the Rangers, Islanders, Red Wings, and Utah have shown interest and have reached out.

So while the Flyers could certainly use a young talent like Shabanov, they have not shown an interest in him at this time. Carry on Flyers fans.