Bogdan Konyushkov had an impressive second season in the KHL, starting strong offensively but then settling down. He ended the season with 28 points in 65 games, which is quite notable for a 21-year-old defenseman in the KHL. Konyushkov, a prospect for the Montreal Canadiens, plays for Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod and seems content with his current situation. This was evident when he declined an offer to join SKA in St. Petersburg, a decision his club also supported.
SKA tried to get #GoHabsGo prospect Bogdan Konyushkov.
Himself and the team rejected them.
Igor Larionov > Roman Rotenberg pic.twitter.com/5OoxI0UkWH
— Hockey News Hub (@HockeyNewsHub) May 1, 2024
Igor Larionov, the coach at Torpedo, holds a strong affection for his young defenseman. Last September, the former NHL star expressed his belief that Konyushkov already possesses the skills necessary to be a significant player in the NHL, which is quite a statement considering his age. Larionov’s trust in Konyushkov might explain why both sides rejected the deal with SKA.
Under Larionov’s guidance, Konyushkov receives ample ice time, a contrast to how young players are often handled at SKA in St. Petersburg. Essentially, staying put seems like the better option for him at the moment, especially considering Larionov’s confidence in him.
After being drafted by the Habs in the fourth round last June, Bogdan Konyushkov signed a three-year contract with Torpedo. However, it’s not impossible to imagine a special arrangement that would allow him to play in the NHL before too long, similar to what happened with Matvei Michkov.
In bursts
Two players worth keeping an eye on for upcoming drafts are:
James Hagens et Gavin McKenna ont tout démoli dans la ronde préliminaire du CMH U18 🔥
Ils sont les meilleurs espoirs pour les repêchages de 2025 et 2026 respectivement 👶🏻 pic.twitter.com/WpomYu66DJ
— RDS (@RDSca) May 1, 2024
Some chatter the Chicago Wolves may once again become the AHL affiliate of the Carolina Hurricanes.
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) May 1, 2024
Victor Hedman participera au Championnat du monde de hockey pour la première fois depuis 2017! 🇸🇪https://t.co/c12WdwqoSE
— RDS (@RDSca) May 1, 2024
Les Montréalaises dans la dernière ligne droite avant les séries https://t.co/FMpxsSL7Ip
— Radio-Canada Sports (@RC_Sports) May 1, 2024
