Alexei Kovalev Named Assistant Coach of Shanghai Dragons

The Shanghai Dragons have appointed Alexei Kovalev as assistant coach through the end of the season, the club announced.

Kovalev brings extensive experience within the organization and across international hockey. He previously served as an assistant coach with Kunlun Red Star in 2018–20 and 2021–22, and was the club’s head coach during the 2020–21 season. At the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, Kovalev worked as a senior coach for China’s national team. Most recently, he spent the past two seasons on the coaching staff of Spartak Moscow.

“Alexei is a great example of a high-end player who has successfully transitioned into coaching,” said Shanghai Dragons general manager Igor Varitsky. “He’s able to translate his experience directly to the ice. Alexei will oversee our forwards and the power play. We need growth in that area, and we’re confident he’ll help elevate our offensive game.”

Press Office, Shanghai Dragons