 Nikolay spent time in the Russian Super League before coming to North America for the 2007–08 season and playing for the Peoria Rivermen, affiliate of the Blues.On December 15, 2008, it was reported that Lemtyugov had quit the Rivermen and was signed to a multi-year deal with Severstal Cherepovets.In July 2019, Lemtyugov moved to the UK to sign for Sheffield Steelers, reuniting with his former coach Aaron Fox in the process.