Maxim Afinogenov is a former professional ice hockey player from Russia who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over a decade. He was known for his speed and agility on the ice, as well as his offensive skills.
Afinogenov began his professional career in Russia, playing for Dynamo Moscow in the Russian Superleague. He was drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the third round of the 1997 NHL Entry Draft and made his NHL debut in the 1999-2000 season.
During his time with the Sabres, Afinogenov became known as one of the team's top offensive players. He had a career-high 73 points in the 2006-2007 season and was named to the NHL All-Star Game that year. He also helped lead the Sabres to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2006.
After spending eight seasons with the Sabres, Afinogenov signed with the Atlanta Thrashers in 2009. He played one season with the Thrashers before returning to Russia to play in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
In addition to his NHL career, Afinogenov also represented Russia in international competition. He won a gold medal at the 2008 IIHF World Championships and a bronze medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics.
Afinogenov retired from professional hockey in 2016 and currently works as a coach for the Russian national team. He is remembered as one of the most exciting players to watch during his time in the NHL, known for his speed and skill on the ice.
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