Alexei Kolosov, a goaltender recently assigned to the Philadelphia Flyers’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, has voiced significant concerns regarding his experience with the team. His difficulties stem from several factors including isolation, language barriers, and cultural adjustment issues. Kolosov, who is originally from Minsk, Belarus, felt particularly alone as he was placed in a hotel by himself, and his limited proficiency in English exacerbated his feelings of isolation. These challenges have led to his decision to reconsider his future with the organization.
Tony Androckitis, a commentator for Inside AHL Hockey, highlighted Kolosov’s dissatisfaction, adding that this situation contributes to uncertainty about his future with the Flyers. The team’s intentions for Kolosov remain unclear, and the Phantoms are actively working on strengthening their goaltending lineup by potentially signing Keith Petruzzelli, along with Cal Petersen and Parker Gahagen. Petruzzelli, who has experience in both the AHL and the ECHL, struggled last season with the Toronto Marlies. His addition could serve as a precautionary measure in case Kolosov does not return.
Despite being under contract with the Flyers, which restricts him from joining another team without permission, Kolosov might seek to terminate his contract due to homesickness and limited playtime. If he does decide to return to North America, the Reading Royals, who currently do not have a signed goaltender for the upcoming season, could be a potential destination for him. However, no official confirmations have been made by either Kolosov or the Flyers regarding any changes to his current situation. The Flyers anticipate Kolosov’s participation in their training camp scheduled for September.
Kolosov was reassigned to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms from Dinamo Minsk in the KHL on April 2, 2024. During his time with Dinamo Minsk, he had a commendable season, posting a 22-21-3 record with a 2.39 goals-against average and a .907 save percentage. Notably, he achieved three shutouts in his first ten games of the season and enjoyed two separate three-game winning streaks. Over his career with Dinamo Minsk, Kolosov accumulated 49 wins and six shutouts in 120 KHL games. The Flyers had drafted him in 2021, and he subsequently signed an entry-level contract with them in July 2023.
