Big news as Leafs prospect Nikita Grebyonkin has contract terminated

Recently crowned Gagarin Cup champions, Metallurg Magnitogorsk, has granted Grebyonkin an early release from his KHL contract, agreeing to a mutual contract termination to allow Grebyonkin to sign his entry-level contract with the Maple Leafs earlier than expected.

The 21-year-old winger produced 19 goals and 22 assists for a total of 41 points in 67 games for Metallurg this season, just one season after breaking out with Amur Khabarovsk as a rookie. Grebyonkin notched 9 goals and 26 points in 45 games wkth Amur last season.

These numbers are very good for such a young player. It can be tough for the younger guys to get their footing in the KHL, a league notorious for having its veterans get the lions share of the ice time and opportunities. In this sense, Grebyonkin appears to be ahead of the curve in some aspects.

As of this moment, the Leafs have not signed Grebyonkin to his ELC, but give today's news, that announcement is likely not far off, and could come as soon as today.

At this point, it's unclear whether Grebyonkin will join the Maple Leafs in their postseason run or if he'll head straight to the Marlies to begin his transition to the North American game in the American Hockey League.

It's a big day for the Maple Leafs, as they prepare for an all-important Game 4 against the Boston Bruins tonight, down 2-1 in their first round 7-game series.