Ilyin has re-established himself as a prospect worth monitoring after bouncing back with improved KHL production following a disappointing 2024-25 season. His fantasy appeal still starts with the shot, which remains his best weapon, but the encouraging part this year has been how much more comfortably he has found ways to use it within the flow of play rather than settling for forced looks. That has helped push his projection back toward middle-six territory and put him back on the radar as a viable depth scorer in the Pittsburgh system. The key with Ilyin remains consistency, as his long-term value will depend on whether his engagement and decision-making can stay aligned with his physical tools. If this year’s progress proves sustainable, he has a real chance to develop into an NHL contributor with some deeper-league fantasy value.

Ilyin, Pittsburgh Penguins fifth-round pick(142nd overall) in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, signed to a three-year entry-level contract with the Penguins on May 31, 2025. His contract will begin in the 2025-26 campaign and will run through the 2027-28 season.

Ilyin began his draft plus one season on fire with four points in his first six games. He is a prototypical offensive-leaning winger playing in the KHL at a young age. Ilyin struggles to keep up, skating-wise, and will need significant improvements to the power and efficiency of his stride. Once in the offensive zone, he is a force to be reckoned with. His agility on bigger ice in Europe has helped him to succeed as an offensive force. Passing and handling are the main strengths of Ilyin’s game right now. He is incredibly deceptive and can be seen consistently faking out defenders. With Ilyin playing in the KHL, his future in the NHL remains a bit of a mystery, but Ilyin’s skill is intriguing.

Ilyin spent the majority of the 2024-25 season with the Severstal Cherepovets of the KHL. The 6-3, 191-pound forward appeared in 64 regular-season games, where he recorded 30 points (seven goals and 23 assists).In three seasons with Cherepovets, he played in 150 career regular-season games, recording 61 points (19 goals and 42 assists). He also played in 10 career KHL playoff games, producing five assists.

An intriguing prospect with legitimate playmaking ability, he has shown real skill and the ability to produce offensively in the KHL. A chance to learn from Sidney Crosby and fellow Russian forward Evgeni Malkin will be a great learning opportunity for the 20-year-old forward. It’ll be interesting to see how Ilyin’s game translates to the NHL.

Starting the 2025-26 season in the NHL is not a lock, and some time spent in the AHL might be needed; there is an opportunity in Pittsburgh to make an impact at the NHL level and provide fantasy value sooner rather than later.