Sergei Makarov

Sergei Makarov was one of the most accomplished Soviet hockey players to transition to the NHL. A legendary winger known for his playmaking brilliance, puck control, and vision, Makarov was part of the famed "KLM Line" alongside Igor Larionov and Vladimir Krutov for the Soviet Red Army team and national squad.

Makarov finally joined the NHL at age 31 with the Calgary Flames in 1989–90, winning the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year—a controversial result that led the league to later change eligibility rules.

Though he arrived late in his career, Makarov made an impact with his creativity and hockey IQ. He later played with the San Jose Sharks and Dallas Stars before retiring.

A two-time Olympic gold medalist and eight-time World Champion, Makarov was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2016 for his contributions to the sport worldwide.

Makarov's Awards and Records

• Calder Memorial Trophy (Rookie of the Year): 1990
• IIHF Hall of Fame Inductee: 2001
• Hockey Hall of Fame Inductee: 2016
• Olympic Gold Medals: 1984, 1988 (Team USSR)
• Olympic Silver Medal: 1980
• World Championship Gold Medals: 8 (1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1986, 1989, 1990)
• Canada Cup Champion: 1981

NHL Records

• Oldest player to win the Calder Trophy (age 31), leading to a rule change (now under-26 eligibility)
• Member of the dominant KLM Line in international hockey
• One of the most decorated international players in hockey history
• Opened doors for Russian and Soviet players in the NHL

NHL Teams

Traktor Chelyabinsk (1976-78)
CSKA Moscow (1978-89)
Calgary Flames (1989-1992)
San Jose Sharks (1993-95)
HC Fribourg-Gottéron (1996-97)
Dallas Stars (1996-97)