Career
Svitov was drafted in the first round, third overall, by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2001 National Hockey League Entry Draft. He made his National Hockey League (National Hockey League) debut with the Lightning in the 2002-2003 season, appearing in 63 games and recording eight points. During the 2003-2004 season, he was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for Darryl Sydor.
During the 2005-2006 season, Svitov returned to Russia and played for his hometown, Avangard Omsk, in the Russian Superleague (RSL).
In the following 2006-2007 season, Svitov returned to the Blue Jackets and played in a career high 76 games, scoring 18 points. On 17 August 2007, Svitov signed a three-year contract with Avangard Omsk, after signing a two-year contract with the Blue Jackets on 2 July.
Svitov is IIHF World U20 Championship all-time statistical leader in penalty minutes with 101 minutes in 11 games.