Former Oiler Fan Favourite May Have Saved His NHL Career With Breakout Game on San Jose Sharks

Kostin scored his first goal of the season, recorded an assist, and dropped the gloves with Seattle Kraken defender Will Borgen for picking on his teammate.

After the game, reporters asked if Kostin even knew what a Gordie Howe Hat Trick was, and he laughed off the ridiculous question - of course he does.

San Jose Sharks coach David Warsofsky praised Kostin after the game for his intensity during the game.

It's interesting that Warsofsky specifically mentioned Kostin being engaged, because it may explain why the big Russian power forward has struggled so much lately.

Kostin was recently healthy scratched for over two full weeks in a row, and rumours began that he may find himself on the waiver wire soon if things don't turn around.

Over his full 169 game career with 4 different teams, Kostin was only ever really good with the Edmonton Oilers. He greatly surpassed his career highs to score 11 goals and 21 points in 57 games.

Hockey fans have seen Kostin be a high-end power forward in the NHL, a fierce physical presence that's also able to get to the net front and finish some greasy goals. He clearly has the talent and ability to be a big player for the Sharks, but he's just not mentally engaged.

It seems that stretch of healthy scratches may have been enough to wake up Kostin into improving his game this season, and perhaps saving his NHL career.

Kostin is under contract for $2M for the remainder of this season, and then becomes a restricted free agent.

The Edmonton Oilers could welcome some toughness like Kostin in their bottom six, and Kostin himself has said he'd welcome a return to Edmonton. If they could find a way to get him for cheap and at retained salary, it'd be electric to bring Kostin home.

For now at least, Oilers fans will be happy to hear that Kostin is finding his game again, and may be able to stick around in the NHL a little longer.