Kareyev, Somerby, Spooner, Popugayev, Merkley Join the Dragons

The Shanghai Dragons continue to unveil their newest additions. One-year contracts have been signed with goaltender Andrei Kareyev, defenseman Doyle Somerby and forwards Ryan Spooner, Nikita Popugayev, and Nick Merkley.

Igor Varitsky, General Manager of the Shanghai Dragons:

– We have added Andrei Kareyev to the Dragons’ goaltending – he is a player with experience not only in the KHL but also in Europe. He is an agile goaltender with excellent reflexes, remains composed under pressure, and possesses strong mental resilience. Standing tall on the blue line, Doyle Somerby is a true stay-at-home defenseman who excels in his own zone, especially on the penalty kill. Known for his fearless play, he blocks shots with total commitment. Ryan Spooner is no stranger to the KHL, and his strengths are well known: elite skating, speed, hockey IQ and a team-first mentality. He can ignite the offence and move the puck deep into the offensive zone, contributing both at even strength and on the power play. In addition to his imposing body metrics, Nikita Popugayev possesses strong puck skills and a natural scoring touch. He’s a high-energy, high-character player whose presence can unite a locker room. As for Nick Merkley, he is a skilled right-handed forward with speed and a scorer’s touch.