For now, Igor Bobkov is a Duck. But the end destination for the Russian netminder selected in the third round, 76th overall by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft could have him knighted.

Bobkov was granted his official transfer, clearing him to mind the nets of his NHL franchise. That allows Bobkov to join his fellow Anaheim prospects in Penticton for their final tournament bout against the Vancouver Canucks Wednesday. He’s expected to be between the pipes for the Ducks.

But Bobkov’s NHL clearance does not automatically make him eligible to join the London Knights, who made him the 53rd selection in the 2010 CHL Import Draft. Transfers to the CHL are governed by a different set of rules for that of the NHL. The club is hopeful to have the matter resolved by the weekend.

The six-foot-four, 240-pound netminder has been in London for the club’s preseason, but hasn’t been allowed to suit up in any game action.

There is the possibility that Bobkov’s return to London could be delayed. In fact, Bobkov may not be knighted at all. The Ducks are likely to invite Bobkov to their main camp Friday, September 17th.

While he isn’t likely to upset Curtis McElhinney for the backup position to Jonas Hiller, should he impress in camp, the Ducks have the luxury of placing Bobkov with the AHL’s Syracuse Crunch. Since he was drafted out of Russia, Bobkov does not fall under the CHL/NHL agreement and can make the jump to minor-pro as a 19-year-old.

Aaron Vickers is the managing editor of Future Considerations and can be found on Twitter. For all the latest Future Considerations news and posts, follow FC’s Official Twitter Feed, on YouTube and on Facebook!