Dmitri Kostenko (drafted 87th overall in 2021), a young defenseman prospect for the Montreal Canadiens, has proven himself in the VHL, the Russian equivalent of the American Hockey League, during a loan spell with Yugra Khanty-Mansiysk.
However, Sergei Gusev, Yugra's general manager, doesn't hide his aversion towards him and predicts that he will never play in North America or receive an offer from the Canadiens, as noted by Nicolas Cloutier in his article on TVA Sports' website.
Despite solid performances with 20 points, including eight goals, in 22 games, Gusev harshly criticizes Kostenko. He describes him as an offensive defenseman focused on personal success, disregarding physical play and rejecting advice given to him.
