But remains an intriguing fantasy prospect because the power-forward tools are easy to see. His size and puck protection allow him to extend possessions, win along the wall, and create problems around the crease, giving him a profile that could translate well if his skating continues to improve. The offensive ceiling still looks more moderate than star-level, and a lot of his fantasy value will depend on whether he earns the kind of deployment needed to maximize his tools. In deeper leagues, though, there is still plenty to like here, as he has the attributes to grow into a useful middle-six winger with some category appeal if the development keeps trending the right way.

While it was disappointing to see But be one of the last cuts in camp, expectations still remain high. Utah looks willing to take it slow with the 20-year-old’s development. Instead of playing bottom six minutes with the Mammoth, But can play top minutes in Tucson. Given his size, track record and solid showing in the preseason, we’ll likely see him in a Utah sweater sooner rather than later.

While it was expected But would sign soon, it’s now official as Utah has inked him to a three-year, entry-level contract. His Lokomotiv teammate and friend Dmitri Simashev also signed his ELC. But’s talent and scoring is definitely needed in Utah’s lineup, do not be surprised to see him see him spend some time with Tucson to adjust to the North American ice.

Despite slowing down from his excellent start to 2024-25, But still finished the year with nine goals and 28 points in 54 games. While those numbers are not eye-popping, consider But only averaged 11:37 of ice time. He also helped Lokomotiv win the Gagarin Cup, top prize in the KHL. While But’s father is an assistant coach for Lokomotiv, he is still expected to sign with Utah and move to North America for 2025-26.

Off to a strong start, But is currently fourth in team scoring on Lokomotiv with seven goals and 17 points in 27 games. This despite only averaging 12:23 of ice time. Way up from the 9:26 he averaged last year. though. But is only four points off matching his total from all of 2023-24. He looked very impressive in Utah’s prospect camp during the summer. During a scrimmage to cap off the last day of camp, But had four goals, including a first period hat trick.