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Atlant Moscow Oblast
Atlant Moscow Oblast
Atlant Moscow Oblast
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Hockey Club Atlant Moscow Oblast (Russian: ХК Атлант Московская область, English: Atlas Hockey Club Moscow Region) was a Russian professional ice hockey team based in Mytishchi, Moscow Oblast. They were members of the Bobrov Division of the Kontinental Hockey League in the 2014–15 season, but have not been active since the 2015–16 season due to financial issues.

Key Information

History

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Overview

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Atlant was founded in 2005 when a team (Khimik) based in Voskresensk was relocated to Mytishchi. The old team traced its history back to 1953. Immediate success allowed Khimik to play in the Championship of the Soviet Union. Leading the team was playing-coach Nikolay Epshtein. In three years, Khimik was graduated to the top league of the Soviet Union. Three bronze medal results between 1965 and 1984 were capitulated in 1989 when the team achieved silver under prestigious head coach Vladimir Vasiliyev, a major accomplishment for a team from a small town. More impressive is how much successful homegrown talent has come out of the Khimik system, with names including future Stanley Cup winners such as Igor Larionov and Valeri Kamensky.

In the spring of 1998, the status of the team changed, representing not only the city of Voskresensk but also the entire Moscow Oblast. This event took place on their 45th anniversary. During the 2005–06 season, the team relocated within the Moscow Oblast, from Voskresensk to Mytishchi. Following this, the team changed its name to Atlant, prior to its inclusion in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Their new team logo features a Central Asian Shepherd Dog.[1]

Khimik Moscow Logo 2005–2008
Alabai, secondary team logo used in 2008–2010
Atlant Moscow Oblast Logo 2008–2013

Recent history

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Atlant signed NHL goaltender Ray Emery to a single year contract on July 9, 2008. The deal was reportedly worth in excess of $2 million, plus bonuses.[2]

Atlant and Emery had several issues, including Emery attacking the team trainer[3] and his temporary refusal to return to the team after the KHL break over a contract dispute. Emery was upset that his pay was in rubles that were not inflation protected.[4] He returned to the team shortly after [5] to play the remainder of the season.

Honors

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Champions

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1st place, gold medalist(s) Pajulahti Cup (1): 2007

Runners-up

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2nd place, silver medalist(s) Gagarin Cup (1): 2011

Season-by-season KHL records

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Note: GP = Games played, W = Wins, L = Losses, OTW = Overtime/shootout wins, OTL = Overtime/shootout losses, Pts = Points, GF = Goals for, GA = Goals against

Season GP W OTW L OTL Pts GF GA Finish Top Scorer Playoffs
2008–09 56 35 7 11 3 122 189 111 2nd, Bobrov Sergei Mozyakin (76 points: 34 G, 42 A; 56 GP) Lost in Quarterfinals, 1–3 (Metallurg Magnitogorsk)
2009–10 56 24 13 16 3 101 173 137 2nd, Tarasov Sergei Mozyakin (66 points: 27 G, 39 A; 56 GP) Lost in Conference Quarterfinals, 1–3 (Lokomotiv Yaroslavl)
2010–11 54 21 11 16 6 91 138 115 2nd, Tarasov Sergei Mozyakin (61 points: 31 G, 27 A; 34 GP) Lost in Gagarin Cup Finals, 1–4 (Salavat Yulaev Ufa)
2011–12 54 20 11 19 4 86 130 134 2nd, Tarasov Nikolay Zherdev (40 points: 16 G, 24 A; 53 GP) Lost in Conference Semifinals, 2–4 (SKA Saint Petersburg)
2012–13 52 23 4 21 8 73 137 141 4th, Tarasov Nikolay Zherdev (37 points: 13 G, 24 A; 39 GP) Lost in Conference Quarterfinals, 1–4 (SKA Saint Petersburg)
2013–14 54 19 8 22 5 78 123 120 4th, Tarasov Alexander Kadeikin (23 points: 8 G, 15 A; 54 GP) Did not qualify
2014–15 60 23 4 25 8 85 158 161 4th, Bobrov Sergei Shmelyov (37 points: 9 G, 28 A; 55 GP) Did not qualify

Players

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Notable alumni

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Hall-of-Famers

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Main article: List of members of the Hockey Hall of Fame

Players

Triple Gold Club

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Players

Scoring Champions

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First round draft picks

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List of Khimik/Atlant players selected in the NHL Entry Draft

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Atlant Moscow Oblast

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from Grokipedia
Atlant Moscow Oblast was a team based in , , , that competed in the (KHL) from 2008 until its disbandment in 2015 due to financial difficulties. The franchise originated in 1953 as Khimik Voskresensk and underwent several name changes and a relocation to in 2005, adopting the Atlant name in 2008 to reflect its new identity tied to the Moscow region. Over its seven seasons in the KHL, Atlant Moscow Oblast achieved a strong debut in 2008–09, finishing first in the Bobrov Division with 122 points and a .777 , though it was eliminated in the first playoff round. The team played its home games at Arena and compiled an overall record of 219 wins in 386 games, with notable contributions from players who developed through its system, including Soviet-era stars like and Valeri Kamensky from its earlier incarnations. Earlier achievements under previous names included three bronze medals in the Soviet (1965, 1970, 1984), a silver in 1989, and pre-KHL trophies such as the Spartak Cup in 2005 and 2006. Following the senior team's dissolution in May 2015, the Atlant organization continued through its junior affiliate, MHK Atlant , which competes in the Molodezhnaya Hokkeynaya Liga (MHL) and has maintained activity into the 2025–26 season at the same arena. The junior squad, founded in 2009, has reached the MHL multiple times, including conference finals appearances in 2011–12, underscoring the enduring legacy of the Atlant program in Russian hockey development.

History

Origins as Khimik Voskresensk

Khimik Voskresensk was founded in 1953 in the town of Voskresensk, Moscow Oblast, as the sports club of the local chemical industry, reflecting the Soviet tradition of tying athletic teams to industrial enterprises. The team, named "Khimik" after the Russian word for "chemist," quickly established itself in regional competitions, with playing-coach Nikolai Epshtein leading the club from its inception and serving for 22 years. Under Epshtein's guidance, Khimik debuted in the Soviet Championship during the 1955–56 season, initially struggling but laying the groundwork for future competitiveness in the 15-team league. Epshtein, honored as a Merited Coach of the USSR, secured two bronze medals in the Soviet League during his tenure. The club's entry into the top tier of Soviet hockey came in 1964, marking the beginning of consistent participation in the national championship and contributing to its development as a mid-level contender. Key early players who shaped Khimik's identity included defenseman Yury Lyapkin, who began his career with the team in 1964 before moving to Spartak Moscow, and Alexander Ragulin, who made his Soviet Championship debut with Khimik and earned his first international call-up in 1961 while there. also debuted for Khimik at age 17 in the late 1970s, honing his skills in Voskresensk before becoming a Soviet star. These players exemplified the club's emphasis on defensive solidity and skill development, with coaches like Vladimir Vasiliev later guiding the team through the 1980s. Khimik achieved notable success in the Soviet era, particularly in the , with multiple top-four finishes highlighting its rise as a competitive force outside the dominant Moscow clubs. The team earned three bronze medals in the Soviet League between 1965 and 1984, demonstrating sustained excellence. Its pinnacle came in the 1988–89 season, when Khimik finished as runners-up in the Soviet Championship, a remarkable feat against powerhouses like . Players like Valeri Kamensky and Andrei Kvartalnov, both Voskresensk natives who started in the club's system, were instrumental in this era, contributing to the team's 23 wins and 57 points that season. During the era, Khimik developed a renowned youth program in Voskresensk, becoming one of the Soviet Union's premier talent pipelines and producing numerous national team contributors. The Voskresensk hockey school, integrated with the club's operations, emphasized technical proficiency and produced alumni who went on to star for CSKA and the Soviet national team, including eight future NHL players by the late 1990s. This system, supported by local facilities like the Nikolai Epshtein Ice Palace built in 1966, fostered a pipeline of skilled forwards and defensemen, reinforcing Khimik's role in broadening Soviet hockey's base beyond military-affiliated clubs.

Relocation and rebranding to Atlant

In 2005, HC Khimik Voskresensk faced severe financial instability and inadequate facilities at their aging home arena in Voskresensk, prompting the club's relocation within to the town of . The move allowed access to modern infrastructure, including the newly constructed Mytishchi Arena, a 7,000-seat venue built specifically to support professional hockey operations and integrated with the local Olympic Training Center for enhanced training capabilities. This relocation preserved the team's elite-level status in the while addressing operational challenges that had threatened its viability. Following the relocation, the team competed as Khimik Mytishchi in the from 2005 to 2008, undergoing significant roster adjustments to bolster competitiveness. In the 2005–06 season, bolstered by high-profile additions like during the , the team recorded a 27–16–8 mark, securing a spot as one of the league's expanded 16-team postseason field. Subsequent seasons saw further changes, including the acquisition of experienced players to stabilize the lineup; the 2006–07 campaign ended at 26–22–5–1 (84 points), again qualifying for playoffs, while 2007–08 improved to 36–17–4 (105 points), positioning the club strongly ahead of league transitions. These years marked a period of adaptation, with the team focusing on defensive improvements and offensive depth to navigate the competitive Superleague environment. In preparation for the launch of the (KHL) in 2008, the franchise underwent a to Atlant Moscow Oblast, shifting from the localized "Khimik " identity to one representing the broader region and signaling a fresh start in the new elite league. The name "Atlant" evoked strength and stature, aligning with ambitions to establish the club as a regional powerhouse. This , coupled with continued investments in the facilities, facilitated a seamless entry into the KHL as a founding member.

KHL participation and key seasons

Atlant Moscow Oblast entered the (KHL) as one of the league's founding members in the 2008–09 inaugural season, competing in the Western Conference's Bobrov Division following its relocation from Voskresensk. The team posted a strong regular-season record of 35 wins, 11 losses, 7 overtime wins, and 3 overtime losses across 56 games, accumulating 122 points and finishing fifth in the Western Conference. Despite the solid performance, Atlant faced early challenges in adapting to the KHL's expanded format and competitive depth, ultimately exiting in the conference quarterfinals with a loss to . Key contributors included forward Sergei Mozyakin, who led the team with 76 points (34 goals, 42 assists) in the regular season. The team's peak came during the 2010–11 season under head coach Milos Říha, who took over mid-season and guided Atlant to the Final. In the regular season, Atlant recorded 21 wins, 16 losses, 11 overtime wins, and 6 overtime losses over 54 games, earning 91 points and placing fourth in the Tarasov Division. They advanced through the by defeating in the quarterfinals and in the semifinals, before falling 4–1 to in the final series, highlighted by close contests including a 3–2 overtime loss in Game 5. Veteran forward Oleg Kvasha provided crucial leadership and scoring, contributing 19 points (12 goals, 7 assists) in 46 regular-season games and adding playoff presence as a physical presence on the ice. Following their 2010–11 success, Atlant experienced mid-period struggles from 2011 to 2015, marked by inconsistent division finishes and early playoff exits or misses. In 2011–12, they finished fourth in the Tarasov Division with 86 points (20 wins, 19 losses, 11 overtime wins, 4 overtime losses in 54 games), reaching the conference semifinals before losing to Dynamo Moscow. The 2012–13 season saw a drop to eighth in the Western Conference with 73 points (19 wins, 21 losses, 4 overtime wins, 8 overtime losses in 52 games), ending in a quarterfinal defeat to Dinamo Minsk. By 2013–14, Atlant placed ninth in the Western Conference (78 points from 19 wins, 22 losses, 8 overtime wins, 5 overtime losses in 54 games), failing to qualify for the playoffs amid defensive inconsistencies. The 2014–15 campaign, now in the Bobrov Division after realignment, resulted in another ninth-place Western Conference finish (85 points from 23 wins, 25 losses, 4 overtime wins, 8 overtime losses in 60 games), again missing the postseason. Throughout the KHL era, Atlant underwent significant roster turnover, relying on a mix of Russian talent and international acquisitions to bolster depth. Early seasons featured imports like Swiss goaltender Martin Gerber in 2008–09, while later years saw increased foreign signings, including American defenseman and Swedish forward Jonas Andersson in 2014–15, as the team sought to address scoring and defensive gaps amid departing stars like Mozyakin after 2011. This evolution reflected the KHL's growing global appeal but highlighted Atlant's challenges in retaining core players amid competitive bidding from larger clubs.

Financial collapse and dissolution

By the 2014–15 season, Atlant Moscow Oblast faced escalating financial difficulties amid Russia's broader economic crisis, characterized by ruble devaluation, over , and falling oil prices that strained sponsorship revenues and operational funding across the (KHL). The club, based in , struggled with payroll obligations, falling a month behind on player salaries by December 2014, as acknowledged by team president Valeri Kamensky. These issues were compounded by high operational costs, including arena maintenance at the 7,500-seat Mytishchi Arena, which the club could no longer sustain without adequate sponsorship support from local and regional entities affected by the recession. Efforts to secure a or relocation proved unsuccessful, as negotiations with regional authorities in and KHL officials failed to yield viable financial backing or a new home city for the franchise. Ownership instability, with limited private investment amid the economic downturn, further eroded the club's stability, leaving it unable to meet league salary guarantees or debt obligations. Despite briefly stabilizing operations through ad hoc league assistance during the 2014–15 campaign, the mounting made continuation impossible. In May 2015, KHL President officially announced that Atlant Moscow Oblast would withdraw from the league ahead of the 2015–16 season due to insurmountable financial problems, marking the end of its professional operations. The dissolution led to the dispersal of the team's roster, with all 24 players transferred to newly revived Spartak Moscow in a single blockbuster trade facilitated by the KHL to mitigate the impact on the player market. This abrupt closure significantly disrupted hockey infrastructure in , depriving the region of its primary professional team and shifting focus to lower-tier leagues, though junior development programs persisted independently.

Achievements

Domestic league honors

As Khimik Voskresensk, the franchise earned three bronze medals in the (1964–65, 1969–70, 1983–84 seasons) and reached the final in the 1988–89 season, finishing as runners-up after losing to in the championship series. This marked the team's closest approach to a national title during the Soviet era, highlighting their emergence as a competitive force outside the dominant CSKA and programs. In the Russian Superleague (RSL), Atlant Mytishchi, following the 2005 relocation, did not secure a championship but advanced to the quarterfinals in the 2006–07 playoffs. There, they were defeated by Ak Bars Kazan in a best-of-five series (1–3), with Ak Bars going on to reach the final; this run underscored the team's growing stability in the post-relocation phase amid the RSL's final season before transitioning to the KHL. Atlant's most prominent domestic achievement came in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), where they reached the 2011 Gagarin Cup Final but fell to Salavat Yulaev Ufa in five games (1–4). The series featured intense matchups, including a 4–0 shutout victory for Atlant in Game 4 at home, before Salavat clinched the title with a 3–2 win in Game 5; this runner-up finish represented the club's pinnacle in elite Russian hockey and earned them widespread recognition for their defensive resilience led by goaltender Konstantin Barulin. The team never won a regular-season division or title in the KHL but achieved notable finishes in the Western , placing fourth in the 2009–10 season (101 points in 56 games) and second in the 2010–11 season (91 points in 54 games). These placements qualified Atlant for the in both years and demonstrated consistent contention in the league's competitive Western bracket during its formative stages.

International and preseason titles

Atlant Moscow Oblast's predecessor, HC Khimik Voskresensk, captured the in , a preseason international tournament held in that served as key preparation for the season. The victory highlighted the team's competitive edge against other European clubs, with Khimik finishing first after a series of matches including draws and wins against opponents like . Prior to the rebranding and relocation, Khimik also won the Spartak Cup in both 2005 and 2006, an invitational preseason event hosted in that featured top Russian squads and helped evaluate roster depth ahead of the . Following the move to and entry into the (KHL) in 2008, the newly named Atlant secured the Governor's Cup of Moscow Region that same year, another preseason competition emphasizing regional rivalries and player conditioning. These titles underscored Atlant Moscow Oblast's role in preseason events as platforms for talent development and team cohesion, particularly in building readiness for the demands of KHL competition. While the franchise had limited involvement in formal IIHF European club tournaments during the early 2000s—primarily due to the focus on strengthening domestic leagues—such invitational series provided valuable exposure against international opposition.

Playoff history

Atlant Moscow Oblast, formerly known as Khimik Voskresensk, had a notable playoff history spanning multiple eras of Russian and Soviet ice hockey, marked by several deep runs in the postseason despite never winning a major championship. In the Soviet era, Khimik reached the championship round in 1989, ultimately losing to in the final series. The team demonstrated competitive strength that season, finishing third in the league standings with a record of 23 wins, 10 losses, and 11 ties in 44 games. During the period from 2005 to 2008, Khimik made consistent playoff appearances, including conference quarterfinals in 2005–06 (lost 0–3 to ) and round of 16 in 2007–08 (lost 2–3 to ). Their most significant achievement came in 2006–07, when they advanced to the quarterfinals but fell to in a best-of-five series (1–3). This run highlighted their ability to compete against top teams, though they were unable to secure the title. In the KHL era from 2008 to 2015, Atlant experienced their deepest postseason successes, particularly in the . They reached the final in 2010–11 after defeating 4–1 in the conference final, but lost 1–4 to in the championship series, with Salavat taking a 3–0 lead after wins like 3–2 and 3–1. The following season, 2011–12, saw another strong run to the final, where they were eliminated 2–4 by . Additional appearances included conference quarterfinal losses in 2008–09 (to ), 2009–10 (to ), and 2012–13 (to ), while missing the playoffs in 2013–14 and 2014–15. These efforts established Atlant as a consistent contender during their KHL tenure. Across eras, the team's playoff record reflects resilience amid challenges, underscoring their impact in high-stakes matchups without a victory.

Records and statistics

Season-by-season results

Atlant Moscow Oblast, originally founded as Khimik Voskresensk in 1953, competed in various top-tier professional leagues across its history, transitioning from the Soviet Championship to the (RSL) and ultimately the (KHL) until its dissolution. The following table summarizes the team's regular-season performance in these leagues for selected seasons in elite divisions from to 2015, with gaps for periods in lower tiers (e.g., 1953–1969 and 1999–2003) or sparse data. It focuses on key metrics such as , ties, / outcomes, points, finishing position, playoff results, goals for/against, and average attendance where documented. Data reflects participation in elite divisions, with leagues evolving from Soviet Class A ( or B) to the International Hockey League (IHL)/CIS era, RSL/Superleague, and KHL.
SeasonLeagueRecord (W-L-T-OTL-SOL)PtsFinishPlayoffs ResultGF-GAAvg. Attendance
1970-71Soviet Class A 20-16-4-0-044Mid-tableDid not qualify163-135N/A
1971-72Soviet Class A 13-18-1-0-027Lower halfDid not qualify98-112N/A
1972-73Soviet Class A 13-18-1-0-027Lower halfDid not qualify111-122N/A
1974-75Soviet Class A 16-11-9-0-041Upper halfDid not qualify119-120N/A
1975-76Soviet Class A 16-11-9-0-041Upper halfDid not qualify119-120N/A
1976-77Soviet Class A 14-13-9-0-037Mid-tableDid not qualify115-103N/A
1978-79Soviet Class A 15-19-10-0-040Lower halfDid not qualify136-154N/A
1979-80Soviet Class A 15-23-6-0-036Lower halfDid not qualify137-174N/A
1980-81Soviet Class A27-27-2-0-05610thDid not qualify218-207N/A
1981-82Soviet Class A 10-29-5-0-025RelegatedDid not qualify126-197N/A
1982-83Soviet Class A 17-33-6-0-040Upper halfDid not qualify151-232N/A
1983-84Soviet Class A26-13-5-0-0573rd176-159N/A
1984-85Soviet Class A 20-24-8-0-0487thDid not qualify169-183N/A
1985-86Soviet Class A12-21-7-0-03111thDid not qualify126-167N/A
1986-87Soviet Class A16-15-9-0-0418thDid not qualify142-154N/A
1987-88Soviet Class A 15-21-8-0-0386thDid not qualify150-172N/A
1988-89Soviet Class A23-10-11-0-0572ndRunners-up154-122N/A
1989-90Soviet Class A32-9-7-0-0712nd192-107N/A
1990-91Soviet Class A22-15-9-0-0536thLost in quarterfinals146-147N/A
1991-92IHL (CIS)17-11-2-0-036Mid-tableDid not qualify97-83N/A
1992-93RSL18-17-7-0-043West 5thDid not qualify117-125N/A
1993-94RSL20-17-9-0-0497thDid not qualify130-122N/A
1994-95RSL23-21-8-0-054West 4thLost in quarterfinals122-125N/A
1995-96Superleague25-24-3-0-058West 3rdLost in quarterfinals122-128N/A
1996-97Superleague17-18-9-0-043West 6thDid not qualify113-122N/A
1997-98Superleague16-23-7-0-039West 7thDid not qualify101-126N/A
1998-99Superleague8-32-2-0-01811th (relegated)Did not qualify68-140N/A
2003-04Superleague21-26-9-4-07312thDid not qualify117-151N/A
2004-05Superleague26-28-6-0-0839thDid not qualify129-157N/A
2005-06Superleague ()27-16-8-0-0847thLost in conference final127-118N/A
2006-07Superleague ()26-22-5-1-0848thLost in quarterfinals159-130N/A
2007-08Superleague ()36-17-0-4-01053rdLost in conference semifinals189-135N/A
2008-09KHL42-11-0-1-2122Western 1stLost Conference Quarterfinals189-1116,285
2009-10KHL37-16-0-2-1101Western 5thDid not qualify173-1376,083
2010-11KHL32-16-0-2-491Western 6thLost Final138-1155,959
2011-12KHL31-19-0-0-486Western 6thLost Conference Semifinals130-1346,278
2012-13KHL23-21-0-4-473Western 7thLost Conference Quarterfinals137-1415,875
2013-14KHL27-22-0-2-378Western 8thDid not qualify123-1205,437
2014-15KHL27-25-0-3-585Western 8thDid not qualify158-1615,853
During the , Khimik Voskresensk exhibited notable consistency in the Soviet Class A League, maintaining competitive records with multiple seasons exceeding 50 points and top finishes, including a league runner-up position in 1988-89 (23-10-11, 57 points, 154 goals for and 122 against) and a strong regular season (2nd, 71 points, 192-107) leading to bronze in 1989-90, often advancing to with strong defensive play. This era highlighted the team's development of talent and mid-tier reliability, averaging around 140 goals for and 150 against per season in elite play. In the , following and rebranding to Atlant Moscow Oblast in the KHL, performance showed increased volatility, starting with a strong inaugural season in 2008-09 (42 wins, 122 points, 189-111 goals, averaging 6,285 fans per game) and including a surprise run to the final in 2010-11, but declining to frequent playoff misses by mid-decade, such as 2013-14 (27-22-2-3, 78 points, 123-120 goals, 5,437 attendance) amid financial strains and roster changes, with goals for/against hovering near balance but points totals dropping below 90 in later years. Following the 2014-15 season, Atlant Moscow Oblast ceased professional operations due to financial collapse and withdrew from the KHL, with no further senior team seasons recorded.

All-time performance leaders

The all-time performance leaders for Atlant Moscow Oblast reflect the franchise's statistics during its Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) tenure from 2008 to 2015, with data aggregated from regular season and playoff games; earlier records from the Khimik Voskresensk era (pre-2008, including Soviet and Russian Superleague play) are not combined in primary databases due to league differences and tracking separations. Minimum qualifiers include at least 50 games played for skaters and 30 appearances for goaltenders to ensure meaningful career benchmarks. In scoring categories, Sergei Mozyakin dominates as the franchise's top performer, amassing 235 points (99 goals and 136 assists) over 200 games, showcasing his elite offensive impact during the 2010–2013 seasons. Nikolai Zherdev ranks second with 121 points (45 goals, 76 assists) in 143 games, while Jan Bulis follows with 102 points (53 goals, 49 assists) in 162 appearances. The table below summarizes the top five leaders in key offensive stats:
RankPlayerPositionGamesGoalsAssistsPoints
1Sergei MozyakinLW20099136235
2Nikolai ZherdevLW/RW1434576121
3Jan BulisC/LW1625349102
4Alexei GlukhovC/LW243295584
5Andreas EngqvistC173354681
Source: All data from KHL regular season and playoffs, 2008–2015. For goaltending, Konstantin Barulin holds the franchise records for wins (48) and shutouts (14) across 127 games, establishing key reliability in net during multiple seasons. Vitali Kolesnik leads in career save at .945, based on 58 games, highlighting his in high-pressure situations. Notably, delivered a standout 2011 playoff performance with a .952 save and three shutouts in 18 games, contributing to the team's final appearance before his tragic passing. The table below lists top goaltending leaders:
CategoryLeaderGamesValue
WinsKonstantin Barulin12748
ShutoutsKonstantin Barulin12714
Save % (min. 30 GP)Vitali Kolesnik58.945
Source: All data from KHL and , 2008–2015. Defensive statistics emphasize durability and discipline, with Khomitsky leading in penalty minutes at 299 over 190 games, reflecting his physical presence on the blue line. ratings are not comprehensively aggregated in available records for the franchise, though individual seasons like Mozyakin's +28 in 2011–12 illustrate defensive contributions tied to offensive output. Top penalty minutes leaders include:
RankPlayerPositionGamesPIM
1Vadim KhomitskyD190299
2Rafael BatyrshinD152213
3Nikolai ZherdevLW/RW143207
4Andrei ZubarevD140190
5Dmitri BykovD196168
Source: All data from KHL and playoffs, 2008–2015.

Personnel

Notable players and alumni

During the Soviet era, Atlant Moscow Oblast's predecessor, Khimik Voskresensk, produced several players who became international stars and transitioned successfully to the NHL. , a Hall of Famer and member of the , began his professional career with Khimik in 1977–78, appearing in six games before becoming a full-time contributor the following season; he later won three s with the and was inducted into the in 2008. Valeri Kamensky, another early standout for Khimik starting in 1982–83, earned Olympic gold in 1988 and won the with the in 1996 after a successful NHL tenure with the and Avalanche, amassing 200 goals over 847 games. In the KHL era, the franchise featured prominent forwards who led in scoring and earned individual honors. Sergei Mozyakin, the all-time leading scorer for Atlant with 203 points (88 goals, 115 assists) in 166 games, captured the KHL scoring title in both 2008–09 (75 points) and 2009–10 (66 points) while with the team; he was selected to multiple KHL All-Star Games during this period and later won two Gagarin Cups with . Nikolai Zherdev, second on the franchise's all-time list with 116 points (42 goals, 74 assists) in 144 games, served as a key offensive contributor from 2011–13 before returning to the NHL with the and later playing in the AHL. Several Atlant players achieved NHL success, highlighting the team's role in developing cross-league talent. Goaltender , who played 36 games for Atlant in 2009–10 with a 2.60 goals-against average, went on to reach the Final with the in 2020 and appeared in 252 NHL games across multiple teams, including the . Forward Nikita Soshnikov, a sixth-round pick (182nd overall) by the in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft after starring for Atant's junior affiliate MHK Atlant, debuted in the NHL with the in 2015–16, tallying 20 points in 81 games over three seasons. , a standout for Khimik in the 1990s, enjoyed a lengthy NHL career with the , accumulating 453 points (179 goals, 274 assists) in 564 games. The franchise's NHL Entry Draft history includes selections from both the Soviet Khimik era and KHL Atlant periods, with several achieving professional trajectories in . , drafted 45th overall (third round) by the in 1990 from Khimik, won two Stanley Cups with Detroit (1997, 1998) and played 1,182 NHL games, accumulating 853 points. Valeri Zelepukin, selected 221st overall (11th round) by the in 1990 from Khimik, appeared in 595 NHL games with 294 points across teams like the Devils and . From the KHL side, was a first-round pick (27th overall) by the in 2010 after developing in Atant's , going on to play 458 NHL games with 200 points. Franchise awards included Mozyakin's two KHL scoring championships and multiple selections for players like Jan Bulis and Esa Pirnes, who led scoring in individual seasons.

Head coaches and executives

Atlant Moscow Oblast, originally founded as Khimik Voskresensk in 1953, experienced significant coaching influences during its Soviet era, particularly in the 1980s when the team developed into a talent pipeline for the national program. Viktor Tikhonov, the legendary coach of and the Soviet national team, exerted early influence on Khimik's staff and players, as several key figures from the club, including future stars like and , transitioned to CSKA under his guidance, shaping the team's emphasis on skilled, offensive play that prioritized puck possession and creative passing over rigid structures. In the late 1980s, Vladimir Vasilyev served as head coach, leading Khimik to a in the Soviet Championship in 1989, a pinnacle achievement that highlighted the club's offensive prowess with players contributing to high-scoring games averaging over 7 goals per match in key seasons. Following the 2005 relocation to and rebranding as Atlant, the team's coaching staff adapted to the professional demands of the (KHL) starting in 2008, shifting toward more defensive-oriented systems to compete against established powerhouses. Milos Riha took over as head coach mid-season in December 2010, implementing a disciplined defensive strategy that emphasized forechecking and goaltending support, which propelled the underdog team to the final in 2011, where they fell to in seven games. Riha's tenure, lasting through the 2010-11 season, marked a departure from the Soviet-era offensive flair, focusing instead on structured play that limited opponents to under 2.5 goals per game during the playoffs. Subsequent coaching changes reflected ongoing instability, with Sergei Svetlov assuming the head coaching role on December 15, 2012, for the remainder of the 2012-13 season and into the early part of 2013-14, where he served in both head and interim capacities amid performance slumps, before being relieved on September 18, 2013. Bengt-Åke Gustafsson preceded Svetlov in 2011-12, bringing a balanced European approach that stabilized the roster but ended without playoff qualification. By 2014-15, Alexei Kudashov was appointed head coach, overseeing the final KHL season with a defensive emphasis that yielded a 23–4–25–8 record (wins–OT wins–losses–OT losses), though the team struggled with consistency in a transitioning league environment. On the executive side, Atlant was initially supported by regional government involvement following the relocation, which provided funding and infrastructure to elevate the club to KHL status, reflecting state priorities for regional sports development. Ownership shifted in April 2013 when businessman acquired the club, aiming to inject private investment amid growing financial pressures, though this preceded the team's withdrawal from the KHL in 2015 due to . Alexei Zhamnov served as from 2013 to 2015, managing roster transitions and contributing to coaching decisions during the club's final years, including his brief stint as assistant coach in 2013-14.
SeasonHead CoachKey Impact
2009-10Fedor Kanareykin / Valeri Bragin / Nikolai BorschevskyMultiple mid-season changes amid inconsistent results, ending in playoffs.
2010-11Milos Riha (from Dec. 2010)Defensive turnaround to Gagarin Cup final.
2011-12Bengt-Åke GustafssonStabilized team but missed playoffs.
2012-13Sergei Svetlov (from Dec. 2012)Interim stabilization efforts.
2013-14Sergei Svetlov (early) / OthersEarly firing led to further transitions.
2014-15Alexei KudashovFinal KHL season with defensive focus.

Facilities and operations

Home arena and training grounds

Atlant Moscow Oblast, originally known as Khimik Voskresensk, played its home games at the Podmoskovie Ice Palace (now named Nikolai Epstein Podmoskovye Ice Palace) in Voskresensk from the arena's opening in 1966 until 2005. Opened on September 22, 1966, this indoor arena had a capacity of 4,500 spectators and a rink size of 60x30 meters, serving as the primary venue for the team's operations during its early decades in Soviet and Russian leagues. Due to financial difficulties and the limitations of the aging facility, which struggled to meet the demands of higher-level professional hockey including inadequate infrastructure for modern standards, the team relocated within to in the 2005–06 season. The new home arena, Mytishchi Arena (also known as Ice Palace Arena Mytishchi), opened on October 15, 2005, with a capacity of 7,000 for events and a main rink measuring 60x30 meters, complemented by a smaller training rink. This modern multipurpose venue, located at 17 Letnaya Street in , hosted Atlant Moscow Oblast's () games from the league's inception in 2008 until the team's dissolution in 2015, also accommodating practices for both professional and youth squads through its integrated facilities. Following the senior team's disbandment in 2015 amid ongoing financial challenges, Mytishchi Arena transitioned to support junior and developmental hockey, becoming the primary home and training ground for MHK Atlant Mytishchi of the Junior Hockey League (MHL), which continues to utilize the venue for games, practices, and youth development programs.

Fan base and rivalries

The fan base of Atlant Moscow Oblast developed primarily in the area following the team's relocation from Voskresensk in , as original supporters largely remained loyal to the local Khimik club rather than following the relocated franchise. This shift fostered a new regional identity centered on residents, transforming Arena Mytishchi into a key community gathering place by the late . Attendance grew steadily, with coach Kanareykin noting an increase in female supporters as the team gained popularity. Supporter groups emerged post-relocation, including dedicated fan clubs and initiatives like the "Fanatlant" website launched by enthusiasts to cover both the senior and junior teams. These groups organized community events, such as player meet-and-greets, and contributed to traditions like collective participation in team naming decisions, which helped solidify local pride. Chants emphasizing the team's yellow-and-blue colors and enduring spirit became staples at home games, reinforcing unity among fans. Key rivalries defined the team's competitive landscape, including heated intra-Moscow contests with and Spartak Moscow due to geographic proximity and shared regional fanbases. A deeper historical tension existed with , rooted in Soviet-era grievances from when Atlant operated as Khimik and frequently clashed with the army-backed powerhouse. Victories over these opponents, such as against CSKA and in early KHL seasons, heightened excitement and drew strong local support. Media coverage in the Mytishchi area emphasized the team's community ties, with local outlets like MAU TV Mytishchi and regional newspapers providing regular updates on games, player interactions, and fan events through the club's press service. This prominence helped integrate Atlant into everyday local discourse until the team's dissolution in 2015.

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