Chukarov bolts UMass back end, signs with ECHL’s Railers

Ivan Chukarov (Umass - 13). (Shelley M. Szwast)
Ivan Chukarov registered 25 points in 128 career games from the UMass blue line (photo: Shelley M. Szwast).

The ECHL’s Worcester Railers have signed UMass defenseman Ivan Chukarov.

Chukarov, a senior, leaves the Minutemen with five games left in the regular season.

“The Railers are excited to have Ivan make his professional debut with the club,” said Worcester coach-GM Jamie Russell in a statement. “We look forward to working with him as he develops his game for the next level.”

Originally drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the seventh round (182nd overall) of the 2015 NHL Draft, Chukarov recorded six goals and 19 assists for 25 points along with 88 penalty minutes in 128 games for UMass.