Matvey Nikonovich (6'2", 187 lbs), in the regular season of the MHL, posted a .939 save percentage with a 1.98 goals-against average in 38 games for Ladiya.

"Pittsburgh traded their 2028 fifth-round draft pick to Nashville for a 2026 fifth-round pick in order to acquire Nikonovich."

"This will allow us to get another valuable asset or more draft picks, and that's why I decided to select a goaltender," said Marty Williamson. "It wasn't entirely about strengthening the position, but when you have the opportunity to acquire such a high-caliber player at a point in the draft as late as we did, it's very valuable for us."