Afanasyev as a Moscow native began his junior development by moving to North America and playing in Michigan with Little Caesers under-16 team in the HPHL before he was selected 156th overall in the 2017 USHL Fuutres Draft by the Muskegon Lumberjacks.
In order to continue his development, Afanasyev returned to his native Russia, securing a one-year contract with perennial contending Kontinental Hockey League club, CSKA Moscow on loan from the Predators.
[5] Returning to the Predators for the 2021–22 season, Afanasyev was amongst the last cuts at training camp, assigned to begin his North American professional career with AHL affiliate, the Milwaukee Admirals.
[7] He was immediately inserted into the lineup that night and made his NHL debut in a 2–1 shootout victory over the Los Angeles Kings.
On 1 August 2024, Afanasyev opted to return to his homeland to continue his career, signing a three-year contract with his original club, CSKA Moscow of the KHL.