Looks like they'll be KHL-bound next year

HC "Donbass" prepares for the KHL!

On Saturday evening the President of Hockey Club "Donbass" Boris Kolesnikov in an exclusive interview to TV channel "Hockey" stated that regardless of the result, shown in the first team this season in the highest Hockey League in Russia, the Club is preparing for membership in the Continental Hockey League for season 2012/1013 Gg.
http://hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/16882?lang=ru

Looks like they'll be KHL-bound next year

Wow this is great for Ukraine. Will there be a team moving up to the VHL to replace them? And will an MHL team be created as well? This will be huge in helping the development of Ukraine and in retaining players for the National Team.

I don't see why they would want to make a new team for the VHL. Haven't heard any other news yet, even the channel's site doesn't offer specifics on the interview itself....and I wait!

and will an MHL team be created as well?
I am almost sure that yes, it will. According to my knowledge, this newcomer should play MHL B (2nd tier) website here http://mhl2.khl.ru/

Swede Jim Brithen works for Donbass hockey school

This will be huge in helping the development of Ukraine and in retaining players for the National Team.

There's not a lot if anything to retain currently. In long term, absolutely.

I am almost sure that yes, it will. According to my knowledge, this newcomer should play MHL B (2nd tier) website here http://mhl2.khl.ru/

Swede Jim Brithen works for Donbass hockey school

I read somewhere that MHL side won't be playing in MHL system next year already, firstly because there's not enough talant currently to fill the roster. And Brithen successfully works with younger kids, not sure he should be a part of a potential MHL team

I read somewhere that MHL side won't be playing in MHL system next year already, firstly because there's not enough talant currently to fill the roster. And Brithen successfully works with younger kids, not sure he should be a part of a potential MHL team
maybe you are right. I just read that Donbass want to join MHL for season 2012/13, but I read it a few months ago. Plans can be changed. Btw, director of Energie Karlovy Vary said that Ukraine team will play MHL next season, he did not say if MHL A or B. Energie wants to join MHL this summer. He can have wrong informations (I would not be suprised) or has more detail info. Lets wait until summer.

to Brithen, yes he works with 1998 born kids as I read it at website. Mentioning his name I did not want to say he will work with Donbass MHL team. I pointed out that Donbass tries to do something with kids development.

Ozo, I remember in another thread you stated how players with dual citizenship (Russian and Ukrainian/Belarussian/Kazakh etc) were not considered domestics unless they stopped playing internationally for their oringinal countries. However, recently Belarusians and Kazakh’s were made exempt of foreigner limit. If having a KHL team enables Ukrainians to be exempt from the foreigner limit, that would be the most important step to setting Ukrainian hockey back on track IMO.

Ozo, I remember in another thread you stated how players with dual citizenship (Russian and Ukrainian/Belarussian/Kazakh etc) were not considered domestics unless they stopped playing internationally for their oringinal countries. However, recently Belarusians and Kazakh’s were made exempt of foreigner limit. If having a KHL team enables Ukrainians to be exempt from the foreigner limit, that would be the most important step to setting Ukrainian hockey back on track IMO.

It would be nice, but frankly speaking how many still NT eligible Ukrainians currently are playing in KHL? Razin? Anyone else? There could be few more potential KHL-ers on Donbass roster, but that's it. The most import thing currently is to have more clubs with hockey pyramids like Donbass and Berkut have so that talanted kids wouldn't have to leave Ukraine at very early stages (Though I do think, that Kiev absolutely must have a KHL franchise).

True, however I was thinking more in a sense of opportunities for younger players. If Ukrainians do not count as foreigners then players will not be putting their club careers at risk playing internationally for Ukraine. It would be easier to get players to commit to their national program if that is the case.

http://www.hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/16997?lang=uk

rough google trans
Today Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine Borys Kolesnikov called and said they were going to apply "Donbass". This means that they decided to build a multipurpose arena that will be put up in 2015. Given the reconstruction of the arena, although they and not "dragged" her to 5500 seats, but, nevertheless, the vote may be exempted if we see that all decisions on funding taken. We remember how they built the first-class "Donbass Arena" for soccer "Shakhtar" - the more there will be the same European Basketball Championship in 2015, so the arena will surely be built, and there is no risk. " source: "Sovetsky Sport"

True, however I was thinking more in a sense of opportunities for younger players. If Ukrainians do not count as foreigners then players will not be putting their club careers at risk playing internationally for Ukraine. It would be easier to get players to commit to their national program if that is the case.

yes. this is a big step in the long term.

http://en.ria.ru/sports/20120410/172719398.html

Ukrainian champion Donbass Donetsk is to be admitted to the KHL, the hockey league's president Alexander Medvedev said Tuesday.
There was no timeframe indicated, but if the team is registered for next season's competition it would take the potential number of new faces to five.
That would mark a significant step forward in the KHL's quest to expand the Russian-centered league across the continent.
Donbass's Ice Palace Druzhba is a low-capacity arena at 4,500 seats, falling short of KHL requirement of 10,000, but Medvedev said the league was willing to turn a blind eye for now.
"Donbass will play as an exception, the arena hasn't been upgraded by 5,500 seats yet," he said.
Donbass is the only Ukrainian team to play in the Russian Major League after splitting with their affiliate, HC Donbass-2 following the 2010-11 season.
Meanwhile, the KHL will also have representation from Slovakia and the Czech Republic as Medvedev confirmed the participation of powerhouse Slovan Bratislava and Lev Poprad.
Poprad is a town in Slovakia but Lev is moving to a new arena in Prague after reaching an agreement with the Czech Ice Hockey Federation.
"Lev of Prague will definitely play, and Slovan will definitely play," Medvedev said.
The fate of two other teams negotiating entry into the KHL was unclear.
The Milano Rossoblu hockey club told RIA Novosti in March that it would make a final decision in April on whether to join the KHL.
The long-mooted addition of the Italians, from the second-tier Serie B, hangs on their financial security, and president Ico Migliore said he was loathed to enter his club next season without guarantees it can remain long term.
"Milan really wants to come in, but a lot of things need to be cleared up," Medvedev said.
HK Poprad, another team from the northern Slovak spa town, had been bidding to enter but reportedly had trouble providing guarantees of financial stability. Medvedev made no mention of the team.

whats this rubbish about 10k minimum? most teams have 5k

It would be nice, but frankly speaking how many still NT eligible Ukrainians currently are playing in KHL? Razin? Anyone else? There could be few more potential KHL-ers on Donbass roster, but that's it. The most import thing currently is to have more clubs with hockey pyramids like Donbass and Berkut have so that talanted kids wouldn't have to leave Ukraine at very early stages (Though I do think, that Kiev absolutely must have a KHL franchise).

Sergei Gaiduchenko is eligible and may play now that he won't be counted as a foreigner and Andrei Mikhnov plays in the KHL I believe.

http://en.ria.ru/sports/20120410/172719398.html

whats this rubbish about 10k minimum? most teams have 5k

KHL now has requirements regarding clubs wishing to join the league or building a new arena.

here (http://www.khl.ru/documents/KHL_technical_regulations_2011-2014.pdf)
Статья 2. Количество индивидуальных зрительских мест на спортсооружениях
1. Количество индивидуальных зрительских мест на спортсооружении должно со-
ставлять не менее 5500 (пяти тысяч пятисот).
2. Клубам, которые базируются в городах с населением менее 100 000 (ста тысяч)
человек, разрешается проведение матчей Чемпионата на спортсооружениях менее
5500 зрительских мест, но не менее 2500, в полном объеме отвечающих остальным
требованиям к спортсооружениям, предъявляемым настоящим Регламентом.
1. Проект нового спортсооружения, планируемого для проведения матчей Чемпионата,
кроме упомянутых выше требований Технического Регламента, должен предусма-
тривать следующее:
1.1. Количество индивидуальных зрительских мест – не менее 12 000 в городах с
населением более 500 000 человек. Для городов с населением до 500 000 человек
количество индивидуальных зрительских мест – не менее 9 000. Для городов,
в которых базируются два и более Клуба, участвующих в Чемпионате КХЛ,
количество индивидуальных зрительских мест – не менее 9 000;

Sergei Gaiduchenko is eligible and may play now that he won't be counted as a foreigner and Andrei Mikhnov plays in the KHL I believe.

There's no guarantee that bolded part is happening, and Andrei Mikhnov is Russian capped, he would require four consecutive seasons played in Ukraine to become Ukrainian eligible again (as would Shvidki, Zherdev, Babchuk if they wished to play for Ukraine).

There's no guarantee that bolded part is happening, and Andrei Mikhnov is Russian capped, he would require four consecutive seasons played in Ukraine to become Ukrainian eligible again (as would Shvidki, Zherdev, Babchuk if they wished to play for Ukraine).

I believe you're thinking of his older brother, Alexei. Andrei has represented Ukraine as recently as last year I believe.

http://en.ria.ru/sports/20120410/172719398.html



whats this rubbish about 10k minimum? most teams have 5k

Well good thing we all know the rules can be bent. They are more like guidelines.

Well good thing we all know the rules can be bent. They are more like guidelines.

Yeah. In Donetsk's case, it's a guarantee that they'll be making a bigger arena for hockey & basketball, so I guess the KHL feels safe that they'll follow through.

Other teams with less security would want things up front.

Of course, watch the POR get decimated in the next parliamentary elections (unless they rig it massively) and should the POR lose the presidency then Donbas' owner could get run out of town (again)

Yeah. In Donetsk's case, it's a guarantee that they'll be making a bigger arena for hockey & basketball, so I guess the KHL feels safe that they'll follow through.

Other teams with less security would want things up front.

Of course, watch the POR get decimated in the next parliamentary elections (unless they rig it massively) and should the POR lose the presidency then Donbas' owner could get run out of town (again)

You think the POR is in any trouble in the Donetsk region? I think they are safe even if power changes in Kiev. It's almost their personal fiefdom.


Not to change this to a political discussion but it does involve the hockey team. Akmetov hasn't been swept away despite changes in political winds. I think the current Donetsk oligarchs are fairly safe and secure in the Donbass with their wealth and relative power.

Before the POR got re-elected in '10, Akhmetov had to flee the country to Monaco and Kolesnikov was rung up on extortion/assassination conspiracy charges.

If Tymoshenko can't be kept safe from the POR, the other side is equally as in trouble if a power shift occurs again (though if that'll happen is anyone's guess, they're becoming pretty entrenched despite no popular support)

Before the POR got re-elected in '10, Akhmetov had to flee the country to Monaco and Kolesnikov was rung up on extortion/assassination conspiracy charges.

If Tymoshenko can't be kept safe from the POR, the other side is equally as in trouble if a power shift occurs again (though if that'll happen is anyone's guess, they're becoming pretty entrenched despite no popular support)

You are right that the Tymoshenko case sets a bad precedent for whoever loses the next election. Although I seem to feel that that wouldn't be able to get past the front man of Yanukovich and that Akhmetov and the Donetsk clan would generally remain untouched, like many of Tymoshenko's people in Dnipro.

guys, seems you know ukraine very well, it is logical. Could you pls answer these Qs?

1.who is owner of Donbass? Only Kolesnikov or Akhmetov as well? I googled and I found out Akhmetov is owner of Shakhtar and Kolesnikov is vicepresident of Shakhtar or so. Seems they are friends. Are both involved in Donbass?

2.POR - I suppose it is a political party. Which one? I dont know the abbreviation.

guys, seems you know ukraine very well, it is logical. Could you pls answer these Qs?

1.who is owner of Donbass? Only Kolesnikov or Akhmetov as well? I googled and I found out Akhmetov is owner of Shakhtar and Kolesnikov is vicepresident of Shakhtar or so. Seems they are friends. Are both involved in Donbass?

2.POR - I suppose it is a political party. Which one? I dont know the abbreviation.

1. Just Kolesnikov; Akhmetov is just a friend/associate who runs in the same mafia / boys club. Akhmetov has no involvement in HCD.

2. Party of Regions (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Party_of_Regions)

thanks for response

Sorry Vorky, I just use Akmetov's name as a catch all for the Donetsk group of very rich and powerful people. He's simply the richest of that group. But yes they are all friends and allies.

Xokkeu
ok, I just thought that if Kolesnikov is involved in Shaktar, Ahkmetov is involved in Donbass as well. Now I know he is not.

Julius Supler is named as head coach of Donbass for next three seasons. Weak appointment. It's amazing how he still manages to find job in the KHL.

after a crap job he did with CSKA I am shocked that he's hired

after a crap job he did with CSKA I am shocked that he's hired

So now there's a good chance (if Supler will have a saying in it) that there will be more Slovaks/Czechs on Donbass roster than Russians which could also impact the plans of the naturalization of players for National team purposes because .

So now there's a good chance (if Supler will have a saying in it) that there will be more Slovaks/Czechs on Donbass roster than Russians which could also impact the plans of the naturalization of players for National team purposes because .

so you think they're going to naturalize czechoslovaks? interesting


mind you, when HC Budivelnyk tried starting up, the first thing they did was sign a bunch of czechs/slovaks as well

so you think they're going to naturalize czechoslovaks? interesting




Wow, where the second part of my last post disappeared? :laugh: On a contrary. It impossible to find a Czechoslovak good enough who's not capped already for one their respective countries at junior level at least. A Russian? Whole another ball game.

Budivelnik dipped in Czechoslovak player pool because it's the biggest untapped market and the quickest way to build a competative roster. Lot of talant in those leagues which could do well in KHL if there were no foreigner restrictions in KHL.

So it is confirmed that Bratislava, Prague and Donetsk will all have KHL teams now.

Wow, truly a Kontinental league.


Czechs, Slovakia, Ukraine, Latvia, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan.

Next step just need to get the KHL into NHL 13. :)

Wow, where the second part of my last post disappeared? :laugh: On a contrary. It impossible to find a Czechoslovak good enough who's not capped already for one their respective countries at junior level at least. A Russian? Whole another ball game.

Budivelnik dipped in Czechoslovak player pool because it's the biggest untapped market and the quickest way to build a competative roster. Lot of talant in those leagues which could do well in KHL if there were no foreigner restrictions in KHL.

Hell Ukraine could do well enough just to keep our players from naturalizing in Russia.

So it is confirmed that Bratislava, Prague and Donetsk will all have KHL teams now.

Wow, truly a Kontinental league.


Czechs, Slovakia, Ukraine, Latvia, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan.

Next step just need to get the KHL into NHL 13. :)

It'd be nice to see the KHL expand to Japan or another decent hockey market in Asia. I don't know if that would ever happen, but it would be interesting to see.

It'd be nice to see the KHL expand to Japan or another decent hockey market in Asia. I don't know if that would ever happen, but it would be interesting to see.

Don't know about any of the logistics of it, other than Khabarovsk is already way too far from any other team, but it'd be interesting to consider Korea considering they are looking to build a reasonable program by 2018.



Anyway, more important is to get Sokil into the KHL. :nod:

Don't know about any of the logistics of it, other than Khabarovsk is already way too far from any other team, but it'd be interesting to consider Korea considering they are looking to build a reasonable program by 2018.



Anyway, more important is to get Sokil into the KHL. :nod:

Is there a need/big enough base for two teams in Ukraine? I'd think that Kazzinc-Torpedo or one of the big Belarussian teams would move up before Sokil.

Is there a need/big enough base for two teams in Ukraine? I'd think that Kazzinc-Torpedo or one of the big Belarussian teams would move up before Sokil.

In terms of fan support? Or what?

so you think they're going to naturalize czechoslovaks? interesting

wont happpen

mind you, when HC Budivelnyk tried starting up, the first thing they did was sign a bunch of czechs/slovaks as well
coach was Jandač, czech native, it is a reason why slovaks/czechs were signed. Btw, he is a new coach of HC LEV Prague.

Is there a need/big enough base for two teams in Ukraine? I'd think that Kazzinc-Torpedo or one of the big Belarussian teams would move up before Sokil.

You can tell this post was created in NA. :) No offence intended.

First off KHL doesn't really want anymore Kazakh or Belarussian teams in the league so unless they pull the necessary infrastructure and budget it's not gonna happen, there league will not be lenient like in Donbass' case. Ust-Kamenogorsk is a real hockeytown but their main arena is reall old and too small and their ownership is a mess. There was talks about second Minsk franchise but it was rebuffed by Belarussian hockey autorities (some even say Lukashenko himself), because they want Dinamo to have monopoly in the town, but there isn't city big enough to generate the KHL resources anywhere else in Belarus.

And about that fanbase thingy, no real Kiev sports fan will ever root for Donetsk sports team. Period. Even then Ukraine is a huge country in a first place, if it wasn't a former Soviet country it could support more than five franchises. Sure general hockey fans will follow DOnbass, but every will leave the bandwagon if the local KHL team would be to emerge.

Hell Ukraine could do well enough just to keep our players from naturalizing in Russia.

your players CHOOSE to be naturalized in Russia, as there was no hockey future in Ukraine. With emergence of Donbas and somewhat of a pro league Ukraine has started a process, that may be some day, talented Ukrainians will no longer want to become Russian citizens to play good hockey.

your players CHOOSE to be naturalized in Russia, as there was no hockey future in Ukraine. With emergence of Donbas and somewhat of a pro league Ukraine has started a process, that may be some day, talented Ukrainians will no longer want to become Russian citizens to play good hockey.

Yes, that's why we wanted a KHL team.

You can tell this post was created in NA. :) No offence intended.

First off KHL doesn't really want anymore Kazakh or Belarussian teams in the league so unless they pull the necessary infrastructure and budget it's not gonna happen, there league will not be lenient like in Donbass' case. Ust-Kamenogorsk is a real hockeytown but their main arena is reall old and too small and their ownership is a mess. There was talks about second Minsk franchise but it was rebuffed by Belarussian hockey autorities (some even say Lukashenko himself), because they want Dinamo to have monopoly in the town, but there isn't city big enough to generate the KHL resources anywhere else in Belarus.

And about that fanbase thingy, no real Kiev sports fan will ever root for Donetsk sports team. Period. Even then Ukraine is a huge country in a first place, if it wasn't a former Soviet country it could support more than five franchises. Sure general hockey fans will follow DOnbass, but every will leave the bandwagon if the local KHL team would be to emerge.

Yep. Kiev is a long ways away from Donetsk and the two cities don't see each other in the kindest light. Kiev is also a city of 4 million and would be one of the largest markets in the KHL. The only problem is getting somebody to invest the money to "promote" Sokil.

Yep. Kiev is a long ways away from Donetsk and the two cities don't see each other in the kindest light. Kiev is also a city of 4 million and would be one of the largest markets in the KHL. The only problem is getting somebody to invest the money to "promote" Sokil.

As much as I would like to see Sokil in KHL, it's more likely it will be a new "Budivelnik" or Berkut because Sokil probably is neck deep in debt. Even Sokil's kid programme doesn't look good anymore, recently checked their kids tournament scores and saw that they are loosing with double digit scores to Moscow teams. :shakehead

As much as I would like to see Sokil in KHL, it's more likely it will be a new "Budivelnik" or Berkut because Sokil probably is neck deep in debt. Even Sokil's kid programme doesn't look good anymore, recently checked their kids tournament scores and saw that they are loosing with double digit scores to Moscow teams. :shakehead

Well beggars can't be choosers. I'd like to think the Sokil brand name would mean something, but I'd settle for Budivelnik getting in.

Then we could focus on Kharkiv getting a team. :laugh:

Anyway, more important is to get Sokil into the KHL. :nod:

but I can barely skate!

your players CHOOSE to be naturalized in Russia,

"choose" lol right

"choose russia or we don't sign you"

some choice :laugh:

As much as I would like to see Sokil in KHL, it's more likely it will be a new "Budivelnik" or Berkut because Sokil probably is neck deep in debt. Even Sokil's kid programme doesn't look good anymore, recently checked their kids tournament scores and saw that they are loosing with double digit scores to Moscow teams. :shakehead

well, I can see them selling the franchise then


or continuing to operate as they do in the PHL and having a new ownership group use/license the name

hell ukraine could do well enough just to keep our players from naturalizing in russia.

+100500

I'd like to think the Sokil brand name would mean something, but I'd settle for Budivelnik getting in.


The brand means a lot, but if obtaining it would mean that potential buyer has to spend extra money just to cover former debts, investor might be better off creating a new club. If I remember this correctly Budivelnik was created (on paper) exactly because of this reason. If Donbass will be a success (and I see why not, although Supler is still Supler), I see that someone will get a thing going in Kiev as well, because there simply too much potential.

So the new rules mean, Donbass will need 5 Ukrainians. Who are these 5 best available Ukrainians that will make the roster for sure?

So the new rules mean, Donbass will need 5 Ukrainians. Who are these 5 best available Ukrainians that will make the roster for sure?

Question, is it 5 Ukrainians who can play for the national team? Or 5 players who can get/have a Ukrainian passport?

Tverdovsky is out of contract this year, I wonder if he comes back home to finish his career.

if i remember correctly, the problem with getting Budi going wasn't money but rather the red tape (re: kickbacks) involved in getting an arena made

i'm sure kolomoisky wants to make a team still, just not in dnipropetrovsk (he said as much)

if all the money/power is concentrated in the don right now, what oligarch can set up shop in kyiv?

Question, is it 5 Ukrainians who can play for the national team? Or 5 players who can get/have a Ukrainian passport?

Tverdovsky is out of contract this year, I wonder if he comes back home to finish his career.

i'm going to assume that it means players who are national team eligible, since the league recognizes guys like tverdovsky as strictly russian and not dual citizens...(from what i understand)

does anyone know the contract situation for guys like haiduchenko, zherdev, mikhnov, vishnevski, but, etc? anyone a free agent?


according to eliteprospects' unofficial list, vishnevski, tverdovsky, denisov, komaritsy, bayev, and zherdev are available

i'm going to assume that it means players who are national team eligible, since the league recognizes guys like tverdovsky as strictly russian and not dual citizens...(from what i understand)

does anyone know the contract situation for guys like haiduchenko, zherdev, mikhnov, vishnevski, but, etc? anyone a free agent?


according to eliteprospects' unofficial list, vishnevski, tverdovsky, denisov, komaritsy, bayev, and zherdev are available

But these players are all considered Russians. Only Bayev has no NT experience with Russia.

I realize (I stated it in the same post), but maybe they'd be receptive to playing in Ukraine for one reason or another (esp. the guys who have family in Kharkiv)

I understand, but I'm just saying Donbass would still need to find 5 Ukrainians as those players would not count. Not that it would be hard, although they probably wouldn't be KHL quality.

I can't see any of those players going to Ukraine though.

Well if they have to be national team eligible my guesses for Ukrainian additions are Kvitchenko and Razin. Kvitchenko is out of contract I believe (and can’t play in the MHL anymore). Razin because he is the only Ukrainian player left in the KHL, but I am not sure if he wants to go to Donetsk.

Then they will probably go with some Ukrainian’s already on the roster like Varlamov and Materukhin. I can’t think of any that would be ‘good’ enough. Gaiduchenko isn’t going there, I believe he stated he wants to help rebuild Lokomotiv. Maybe a few Sokil players join Donetsk?

If they only have to be Ukrainian passport holders then it’s completely different

maybe kasianchuk, Shakhraichuk, and klymentiev

If they need 5 guys, my guess would be:

Klimentyev
Andrei Mikhnov
Varlamov
Toryanik (if he's available)
Isayenko?

I would assume that if Ponikarovsky or Fedotenko become available that they'd push hard to grab either of them too. I doubt they would go back to Ukraine, but money can change their minds.

Question, is it 5 Ukrainians who can play for the national team? Or 5 players who can get/have a Ukrainian passport?

Tverdovsky is out of contract this year, I wonder if he comes back home to finish his career.

this

zherdev - he resigned new contract with Atlant a few days ago. He is not consider as Ukrainian according to new KHL rules (can not play fot ukrainian NT I believe)

zherdev - he resigned new contract with Atlant a few days ago. He is not consider as Ukrainian according to new KHL rules (can not play fot ukrainian NT I believe)

Officially? I only heard rumours that is almost done - new two year deal.

Razin is under contract with Traktor for one more season. It's hard to see anyone from Sokil who's really worth signing. Dinamo Riga also pulled Latvians out of really questionable leagues, but they were relatively young bunch, who were pretty dominant Belarus, Hungary, etc. My point is they had potential and look have far they have come, Darzins, M. Redlihs, Galvins, Masalskis and few more. Hard to see veterans like Kasyanchuk, let alone Shakhraichuk or Simchuk adjusting to KHL pace anymore. As the last WC D1A showed, the age of Ukrainian soviet generation is over.

Maybe worth picking up Andrushenko or Yegorov from Belarus. They are well regarded there and have somewhat more impressive CV's like young VHL-ers Toryanik or Ramazanov who showed absolutely nothing in WC 9but to be fair, no Ukrainian did anything good there, besides Pobedonostev). Interesting summer ahead.

http://www.atlant-mo.ru/news/news-atlant/20120330111723.html

seems it is official. 2y deal

"choose" lol right

"choose russia or we don't sign you"

some choice :laugh:

precisely so, the $ floodgates open, you train in a Russian hockey school and so on...Of cause you always have a choice to go play in Ukrainian league, no one's stopping them.

precisely so, the $ floodgates open, you train in a Russian hockey school and so on...Of cause you always have a choice to go play in Ukrainian league, no one's stopping them.

I realize. It's just that no other pro league in the world pays to poach players like this. It's such a bush league tactic.

"we want you, we can't have "foreign" players on the team....but we can print you a passport on this inkjet printer here if you sign with us"


imagine if canada was poaching russian and other european kids in order to play in the CHL :laugh: would be funny to see someone like Yakupov playing in the world juniors for the other side just so he can train in better league with better exposure like Sarnia / the OHL

Canada has done that before - Peter Nedved comes to mind. Not being able to have foreign players - defends the local kids (right or wrong - different conversation), Ukrainians usually come to Russia at a very young age, just to be able to practice hockey, so technically - they are Ukrainian born, Russia - trained players.

Canada has done that before - Peter Nedved comes to mind. Not being able to have foreign players - defends the local kids (right or wrong - different conversation), Ukrainians usually come to Russia at a very young age, just to be able to practice hockey, so technically - they are Ukrainian born, Russia - trained players.

most go to Russia at like 16-18 years old, so majority of their training isn't in Russia, just like finishing school

and yeah, Canada took Nedved...because he had to defect during the Cold War :laugh: have some relevant examples?

I think Zherdev and Babchuk were 16 when they went to Russia. Was Sobchenko 16 too? SO any Russians moaning about Galchenyuk wanting to play for the US, which he can't now anyway, might want to look in the mirror.


Anyway, the good news is that Donbass should put an end to this.

Except Galchenyuk is American, born in America, and trained in America....and his dad is Belarusian-American

Russians will have a hard argument on that one.

Except Galchenyuk is American, born in America, and trained in America....and his dad is Belarusian-American

Russians will have a hard argument on that one.

who's moaning about Galchenyuk? When Nedved "defected the cold war"? in the 90's lol?

most go to Russia at like 16-18 years old, so majority of their training isn't in Russia, just like finishing school

and yeah, Canada took Nedved...because he had to defect during the Cold War :laugh: have some relevant examples?

again in the early 90's the whole Dinamo Kharkov school has defected to Russia, only escaping the ravaging poverty of Ukrainian hockey, not the cold war this time, lol.
All misunderstanding aside, I am all pro revamping Ukrainian hockey. For example Lisov in RA is Ukr born, but he clearly was younger than 16 when he moved to CSKA school.

Except Galchenyuk is American, born in America, and trained in America....and his dad is Belarusian-American

Russians will have a hard argument on that one.

Unfortunately not trained in America enough and thus not eligible for the IIHF. Anyway, the point is that now Ukrainian kids can stay home and play at a high level. Still might need some decent investment in the national program however.

When Nedved "defected the cold war"? in the 90's lol?

he defected from communist Czechoslovakia as a refugee in 1989...:shakehead

Unfortunately not trained in America enough and thus not eligible for the IIHF.

huh? maybe I'm not up on him or his history but he was playing in Chicago in 2009, and was a domestic player in the OHL draft...

When Nedved "defected the cold war"? in the 90's lol?

Nedved defected January 2nd 1989, he still won't name the people who helped him defect. Nedved is playing for the Czech republic internationally now, certainly a different era.

huh? maybe I'm not up on him or his history but he was playing in Chicago in 2009, and was a domestic player in the OHL draft...

That appears to be the only year he played hockey in the US.

That appears to be the only year he played hockey in the US.

I thought I read about him playing abroad but I'm googling right now and can't find any mention of it. Just being American and all his stats start in the US.

I thought I read about him playing abroad but I'm googling right now and can't find any mention of it. Just being American and all his stats start in the US.

He technically only played one year in the US and thus is not eligible under IIHF's old rule that they started enforcing yesterday. Regardless, I'm sorry for derailing the thread.

Nedved defected January 2nd 1989, he still won't name the people who helped him defect. Nedved is playing for the Czech republic internationally now, certainly a different era.

what year did he compete for Canada though?

So what are the chances that Gaiduchenko signs with Donbass in the offseason? Would be of great assistance to the Ukrainian hockey program if they had a good goalie to rely on. He could win them games on his own.

Also do you guys think that Klimentyev, Andrei Mikhnov and Varlamov will play for them in the KHL next season? They're some of the only Ukranian's with KHL experience and could be very useful to the team.

varlamov is the captain so i'd be shocked if they dropped him now

andrei sucks, he'll be in the PHL next year me thinks

klymentiev...would be interesting, but i'm sure there are better hockey options out there

what year did he compete for Canada though?

1994, but didn't defectors lose their citizenship?

I know Martina Navratilova lost her citizenship when she defected from Czechoslovakia (granted years before). I haven't been able to find anything definitive but If Nedved lost his citizenship the point is moot since the only country he could represent was Canada at the time.

So what are the chances that Gaiduchenko signs with Donbass in the offseason? Would be of great assistance to the Ukrainian hockey program if they had a good goalie to rely on. He could win them games on his own.
Gaiduchenko stated he wants to go help and rebuild Lokomotiv, I guess it depends if Loko wants him, or if Donbass gives him a boat load of cash.

I haven't been able to find anything definitive but If Nedved lost his citizenship the point is moot since the only country he could represent was Canada at the time.
I dont know how it was but Nedved plays for Czechs now, he is fighting for WC spot

I dont know how it was but Nedved plays for Czechs now, he is fighting for WC spot

Different countries.

Czechoslovakia =/= Czech Republic

Gaiduchenko has contract with CSKA until 30.04.2014 http://www.khl.ru/players/14922/

Gaiduchenko has contract with CSKA until 30.04.2014 http://www.khl.ru/players/14922/

sad news for me, wish he was gone fast.

I dont know how it was but Nedved plays for Czechs now, he is fighting for WC spot

Nedved played for the Czechs in the 1996 World Cup (Non-IIHF),

He got his czech citizenship and played in the czech league for 5 years, he is allowed to switch nations.

sad news for me, wish he was gone fast.

Well, he can be traded for bag of pucks, erm, I mean very valuable draft picks. ;)

There are some rumours that the first signing (maybe some of the Ukrainian players already have existing deals for the next season) of Donbass will be Pavel Brendl... Hopefully it's a false rumour, because Brendl looks done, after he left Torpedo NN.

Pavel Brendl...
do you have a link?

do you have a link?

Why do I have to link anything, you don't trust me? :laugh:

There's a rumour about Sushinshy (link (http://www.hockeypravda.ru/news/show_news.php?id=12332)) and Ondrej Nemec (link (http://www.hockeypravda.ru/news/show_news.php?id=12335)) too.

clearly Donbass will be solid enough this year, based on rumors - they got $$$

clearly Donbass will be solid enough this year, based on rumors - they got $$$

As I already thought Donetsk even in hockey will be Donetsk - mediocrity isn't in the plans of the owners. And that also means Ukraine probably won't get a chance to naturalize players for their needs at International level (and I'm all for such outcome).

ozo, I have no reason not to believe you, but I can not quote you as source :D sorry

varlamov is the captain so i'd be shocked if they dropped him now

andrei sucks, he'll be in the PHL next year me thinks

klymentiev...would be interesting, but i'm sure there are better hockey options out there

Really? I was always under the impression that Andrei was one of the better Ukrainian players, based on the fact that he played in the KHL and put up good points on the NT.

Really? I was always under the impression that Andrei was one of the better Ukrainian players, based on the fact that he played in the KHL and put up good points on the NT.

He had a severe injury, and for a big such big guys it's always very hard to come back after rehabilitation. Though he wasn't a superstar even before. He technically isn't even a PPG player in PHL this season and showed nothing (like the rest of team) in WC.

EDIT: Just read that Donbass2 next year will consist of young players, so he'll have to find a new gig somewhere else.

He had a severe injury, and for a big such big guys it's always very hard to come back after rehabilitation. Though he wasn't a superstar even before. He technically isn't even a PPG player in PHL this season and showed nothing (like the rest of team) in WC.

EDIT: Just read that Donbass2 next year will consist of young players, so he'll have to find a new gig somewhere else.

Do you think there is any possibility that he plays for Donbass next season in the KHL? And what was his injury?

Do you think there is any possibility that he plays for Donbass next season in the KHL? And what was his injury?

He didn't even get a game in VHL this season, so I think it's fair to say that it won't happen. As for the injury, I can't remember anymore, but he was out for almost a full year, so probably with an injured hip or knee.

Donbass has signed two promising youngsters - Viktor Zakharov (http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=115780) and Andrei Tatarenko (http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=89259/) - that will probably play for the second team and have a chance to continue to develop in a competative environment with a view of getting a callup to the big league if need comes.

He didn't even get a game in VHL this season, so I think it's fair to say that it won't happen. As for the injury, I can't remember anymore, but he was out for almost a full year, so probably with an injured hip or knee.

Donbass has signed two promising youngsters - Viktor Zakharov (http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=115780) and Andrei Tatarenko (http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=89259/) - that will probably play for the second team and have a chance to continue to develop in a competative environment with a view of getting a callup to the big league if need comes.

Well it's good to see that the retention of Ukrainian players has already started. Hopefully this will put an end to Russia's poaching of Ukrainian players.

Well, they were already Uke NT players.


who are the current top Ukrainian prospects out there who are 'national team free agents'? Or already playing in Russia but undeclared (like Gaiduchenko)

are there any Ukranians in NA at the age of 20-23?

are there any Ukranians in NA at the age of 20-23?

Igor Gongalsky is 25

Igor Gongalsky is 25

I don't think he represents Ukraine internationally though. I wonder if he'll be sought after by Donbass.

I don't think he represents Ukraine internationally though. I wonder if he'll be sought after by Donbass.

I dont think so, he's mainly a goon, not a really skilled guy or anything... Unless they want to start competing with Vityaz ;)

Donbass should be going after Kvitchenko, Zadoenko and other Ukranian players in the MHL....But I hope they don't get Lisov!!!!

Noticed that Riga and Minsk didn't draft any Russian players in the last KHL draft (or Belarusians, in Minsks case)

Donetsk seems to have been stating they'll push hard for the naturalization of players for the national team - think they'll go heavy in the draft on Russians and Belarusians?

Donbass should be going after Kvitchenko, Zadoenko and other Ukranian players in the MHL....

They are nowhere near good enough for KHL. But they reportedly are sought after by PHL teams.

Donetsk seems to have been stating they'll push hard for the naturalization of players for the national team - think they'll go heavy in the draft on Russians and Belarusians?

KHL draft is such a joke, rare are the cases that there's anything worth drafting or fighting for (and even then if they draft someone like Slepyshev, he would still play for Russia). I do believe that Donetsk would have no prejudices about drafting Russians, but by the time these potential draftees would become eligible they obviously will be too old to play for Ukraine U teams, so they'll have to be good enough for the senior team.

I would like to see them drafting Ukrainians playing for Russian teams, there dozens of them out there. Players like Kutsevich, and Lisov are obviously too old to be drafted, but I think one the leaders of U18 side Bondarev who's playing for Traktor will be eligible.

It will be interesting to see how many current Russian Donbass players might stay on the team, I believe almost everyone of them will become eligible if they will spend another season in Donetsk. Judging by numbers they were better than Ukrainians who made team Ukraine this year.

I don't think he represents Ukraine internationally though. I wonder if he'll be sought after by Donbass.

I don't think he represents anybody because he's not very good, but he's the only guy I could find. I mean I suppose they could try and nationalize somebody like David Schlemko. Ha!

They are nowhere near good enough for KHL. But they reportedly are sought after by PHL teams.

Donbas has a team in PHL too, no? Kvitchenko may one day play in the KHL

As I know, Donbass 2 will play PHL, idea is to sign guys 21-22 years old I believe.

As I know, Donbass 2 will play PHL, idea is to sign guys 21-22 years old I believe.

Their plan is to have no players older than 25 on their second team.

Their plan is to have no players older than 25 on their second team.

thx, I did not remember Kolesnikov´s words when writing post. You are right, thx for correction. He said that Donbass 2 will consist of players not elder 25 but these guys will play only in 1st line. The rest will be 18-21 old guys.

video (time 3:20) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qLbKLrcCPf8&feature=plcp)

I guess that'll be temporary until they get a team set up for the MHL?

I guess that'll be temporary until they get a team set up for the MHL?

I agree

would there be any advantage in this instance, in regards to luring Russian/Belarusian players?

that is, PHL is professional and they have a minimum salary cap vs. MHL which is amateur (and I'm assuming the stipend is even smaller?)

There is also minimal salary of players per season in MHL. Its is 150 000 rubles per season in MHL A. This minimal salary does not work in MHL B, there it is minimal salary in national economy.

oh, so it's not like the CHL where they're amateurs on a weekly allowance?

Why do I have to link anything, you don't trust me? :laugh:

There's a rumour about Sushinshy (link (http://www.hockeypravda.ru/news/show_news.php?id=12332)) and Ondrej Nemec (link (http://www.hockeypravda.ru/news/show_news.php?id=12335)) too.

Sushinsky rumor denied by team
http://hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/17678?lang=ru

oh, so it's not like the CHL where they're amateurs on a weekly allowance?

no, it is not. read this (Статья 141.) (http://mhl.khl.ru/upload/MHL/reglament.pdf) You have to know that eldest players for new season are guys born 1991 (limitation per team - this season it was 5kids, rules were changed btw). If I am right Kvitchenko is not available anymore.

Sushinsky rumor denied by team
http://hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/17678?lang=ru

Good, who needs that floater anyway. :sarcasm:

So has Donbass been officially recognized as a KHL team yet? Will they be there for sure next season?

So has Donbass been officially recognized as a KHL team yet? Will they be there for sure next season?

I don't think so. I they were, we'd probably heard some actual transfer news by now. On a somewhat related note, Konstantin Kasyanchuk supposedly will re-join Dynamo Moscow, so he won't be one those five Donbass' local players. Kasyanchuk is the first and the reigning MVP of PHL.

Damnit.

Obviously for the national team it helps if the big pieces are playing all on the same team all year.

Oh well.

I don't think so. I they were, we'd probably heard some actual transfer news by now. On a somewhat related note, Konstantin Kasyanchuk supposedly will re-join Dynamo Moscow, so he won't be one those five Donbass' local players. Kasyanchuk is the first and the reigning MVP of PHL.

why on Earth would Dinamo need him? he's so done and washed up..

I don't see Dinamo making this move.

Nikolishin was second leading scorer in Ukraine, and even Ivan Khomutov put up huge numbers.

Being MVP of PHL means nothing.

not good enough to be a #6?

not good enough to be a #6?

a #6? he's a forward? or u mean top-6? if yes, not anymore. During his years in Traktor he was decent, after that a shadow of himself.

Хоккей : КХЛ
Состав "Донбасса" пополнят вратарь Лацо и четыре форварда

Донецкий "Донбасс" достиг договорённости о заключении контрактов с пятью игроками: голкипером сборной Словакии Яном Лацо, нападающими сборной Финляндии Туомасом Киискиненом и Яни Туппурайненом, а также форвардами молодёжной сборной Украины Виктором Захаровым и Максимом Мартышко, сообщает официальный сайт клуба. Напомним, что Лацо в прошлом сезоне выступал в КХЛ за "Лев" из Попрада.

Хоккей : КХЛ
Состав "Донбасса" пополнят вратарь Лацо и четыре форварда

Донецкий "Донбасс" достиг договорённости о заключении контрактов с пятью игроками: голкипером сборной Словакии Яном Лацо, нападающими сборной Финляндии Туомасом Киискиненом и Яни Туппурайненом, а также форвардами молодёжной сборной Украины Виктором Захаровым и Максимом Мартышко, сообщает официальный сайт клуба. Напомним, что Лацо в прошлом сезоне выступал в КХЛ за "Лев" из Попрада.

Some nice signings there, first of many to come yet. I also heard that last year's #1 Tsagorodtsev will move to Togliatti.

what we know about these Finns?

what we know about these Finns?

I'm no Finn, but Tuppurainen's accolades this season looks impressive - http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=7504

Хоккей : КХЛ
Состав "Донбасса" пополнят вратарь Лацо и четыре форварда

Донецкий "Донбасс" достиг договорённости о заключении контрактов с пятью игроками: голкипером сборной Словакии Яном Лацо, нападающими сборной Финляндии Туомасом Киискиненом и Яни Туппурайненом, а также форвардами молодёжной сборной Украины Виктором Захаровым и Максимом Мартышко, сообщает официальный сайт клуба. Напомним, что Лацо в прошлом сезоне выступал в КХЛ за "Лев" из Попрада.

Hockey club "Donbass" reached agreement on contracts with Slovakia's goalkeeper Jan Laco (pictured) , striker Finland Tuomas Kiiskinenom and Jani Tuppuraynenom , as well as youth team captain of the Ukrainian striker Victor Zakharov and his colleague in the team and the role Maxim Martyshko .


http://hcdonbass.com/home/news/club/17838?lang=ru

re: Tuomas Kiiskinen and Jani Tuppuraynen

a #6? he's a forward? or u mean top-6? if yes, not anymore. During his years in Traktor he was decent, after that a shadow of himself.

sorry, wrong guy

how about 4th line?

what is potential of these young ukrainians? If I am right, both were born 1994

sorry, wrong guy

how about 4th line?

he used to be a pretty gifted scorer/game breaker when younger for Traktor, whether he had developed a defensive aspect to his game I don't know. I think his agent is trying to milk Sokol or whoever may wanna sign him for more dough....

I'm no Finn, but Tuppurainen's accolades this season looks impressive - http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=7504

both finns look legit, Lazo is decent too...the Ukrainian guy is strictly for the domestic league.

http://www.hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/17872?lang=ru

wishful thinking?

"Fedotenko, Ponikarovsky, Semin. And we are working on that!" - Said Boris Kolesnikov .

He is the owner, after all. I just like that they're going to be proactive on the market, regardless.

edit:
more on this on the official Donbass site with an expose spotlight on the 3. Guess they're treating this seriously. (from the a PR/marketing standpoint or otherwise)

http://hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/17878?lang=ru

On Wednesday, May 9, President HC "Donbass" Boris Kolesnikov reported that the club intends to offer contracts to three players, serving in the National Hockey League. Two of them Ukrainians - Ruslan Fedotenko and Alexei Ponikarovsky.

http://www.hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/17872?lang=ru

wishful thinking?



He is the owner, after all. I just like that they're going to be proactive on the market, regardless.

edit:
more on this on the official Donbass site with an expose spotlight on the 3. Guess they're treating this seriously. (from the a PR/marketing standpoint or otherwise)

http://hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/17878?lang=ru

Wishful thinking on Semin, but I am not surprised if they send an offer to Fedotenko and Ponikarovsky. I would put the chances both signing with Donbass pretty low unless there is a stupid sum of money thrown at them. But even then Fedontenko has an American wife so Ukraine probably wouldn’t jive with her.

Wishful thinking on Semin, but I am not surprised if they send an offer to Fedotenko and Ponikarovsky. I would put the chances both signing with Donbass pretty low unless there is a stupid sum of money thrown at them. But even then Fedontenko has an American wife so Ukraine probably wouldn’t jive with her.

Shevchenko has an American wife, but then Kiev is about a billion times more attractive to live in than Donetsk.

http://www.hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/17872?lang=ru

wishful thinking?



He is the owner, after all. I just like that they're going to be proactive on the market, regardless.

edit:
more on this on the official Donbass site with an expose spotlight on the 3. Guess they're treating this seriously. (from the a PR/marketing standpoint or otherwise)

http://hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/17878?lang=ru

Wishful thinking. He might as well be playing NHL 12. Seriously though somebody needs to get on putting the KHL in NHL 13.

Wishful thinking on Semin, but I am not surprised if they send an offer to Fedotenko and Ponikarovsky. I would put the chances both signing with Donbass pretty low unless there is a stupid sum of money thrown at them. But even then Fedontenko has an American wife so Ukraine probably wouldn’t jive with her.

ditto for Poni (well she's Ukrainian I think, but they're rooted here)

Zhitnik's family stayed in the US when he went to the KHL...

sometimes you have to just suck it up and follow the money, neither of these guys will be making much next year in the NHL and careers are short

ditto for Poni (well she's Ukrainian I think, but they're rooted here)

Zhitnik's family stayed in the US when he went to the KHL...

sometimes you have to just suck it up and follow the money, neither of these guys will be making much next year in the NHL and careers are short

Ponikarovsky got Canadian citizen if memory serves.


If Donbass offer $3-5 million I think they'd have a shot at getting Ponikarovsky. He's making $1.5 mil this year and in the past has been around $2-3.

Fedotenko you might get for $2 but at least in the same range as Ponikarovsky. He's been in the $1-2 mil range for the past several years.


Does Donbass have $8-9 million to throw at these guys? I suppose if they do it shows a level of serious commitment to the project.

Fedotenko will be lucky to get an NHL contract next year, so he's very probable, IMHO. Poni has got 2-3 year to play in the NHL still, but he is steadily declining.

Fedotenko will be lucky to get an NHL contract next year, so he's very probable, IMHO. Poni has got 2-3 year to play in the NHL still, but he is steadily declining.

Interestingly I think that there's more demand in NHL for players like Fedotenko than Ponikarovsky.

Interestingly I think that there's more demand in NHL for players like Fedotenko than Ponikarovsky.

not when he's only getting 20pts in a season

Interestingly I think that there's more demand in NHL for players like Fedotenko than Ponikarovsky.

Agreed. However, if they offer Fedotenko and Ponikarovsky $3-3.5m each per year I could see them going. If the money's there I'm sure they will come, whether or not they'll play for the national team is beyond me. They could do what Viktor Alexandrov did when he went to Barys and still refused to represent Kazakhstan internationally.

Fedotenko will be lucky to get an NHL contract next year, so he's very probable, IMHO. Poni has got 2-3 year to play in the NHL still, but he is steadily declining.

If he played the whole year out like he did in LA & Carolina then I couldn't see him coming back next year. Thankfully he's stepped it up in NJ and seems to be getting back to his form he had with the Leafs w/ Antropov.

Agreed. However, if they offer Fedotenko and Ponikarovsky $3-3.5m each per year I could see them going. If the money's there I'm sure they will come, whether or not they'll play for the national team is beyond me. They could do what Viktor Alexandrov did when he went to Barys and still refused to represent Kazakhstan internationally.

Can't imagine Donbass paying them 3.5M when Fedotenko or Poni wouldn't be able to get a deal in NHL becasue the alternative is Swiss league with a 300K paycheck. So why would Donetsk overpay?

Viktor Alexandrov has an on-going rift with Kazakh hockey rulers since the day they fired his father, an absolute Kazakh hokey legend Boris Alexandrov. AFAIK both Ukrainians have no such conflicts.

my estimates

NHL
Ponikarovsky: $1,500,000 taxed
Fedetenko: $1,400,000 taxed
Semin: $6,700,000 taxed

KHL
Ponikarovsky: $2,500,000 taxfree
Fedotenko: $2,500,000 taxfree
Semin: $8,000,000 taxfree

total: $ 13,000,000

In the year end video, the president of the club stated that they have at least $20million dollars guaranteed, so they could afford spending $13-14mil(maybe 3 mil each). Like Ozo mentioned, there is no point to overpay because that is already a multiple of what they would get in the NHL, and nobody would pay more. Plus they get to play less games and be leaders.

Semin would be a different story because he is highly in demand in the NHL although he is always so short term and might get paid less this year. If Donbas offers him a 2 year $15mil contract, maybe

The point is they would have plenty of money left over for the Finns and other decent players, all the while creating a strong franchise right off the bat. really interesting...

Shevchenko has an American wife, but then Kiev is about a billion times more attractive to live in than Donetsk.
Haven't been to Donetsk, but Kiev is a great city if you stay near the city centre ;). I was there with a group of Canadians in October 2010, the culture shock was too much for them after a while haha.

Agreed. However, if they offer Fedotenko and Ponikarovsky $3-3.5m each per year I could see them going. If the money's there I'm sure they will come, whether or not they'll play for the national team is beyond me. They could do what Viktor Alexandrov did when he went to Barys and still refused to represent Kazakhstan internationally.
I’ve read interviews with Fedotenko stating he is open to play for Ukraine but he hasn’t had the chance in the last few years (injuries and always making the playoffs). Ponikarovsky doesn’t have any interest but he has no reason not to play.

Haven't been to Donetsk, but Kiev is a great city if you stay near the city centre ;). I was there with a group of Canadians in October 2010, the culture shock was too much for them after a while haha.


I’ve read interviews with Fedotenko stating he is open to play for Ukraine but he hasn’t had the chance in the last few years (injuries and always making the playoffs). Ponikarovsky doesn’t have any interest but he has no reason not to play.

Jeez if they can't handle Kiev they must not travel much. The suburbs are no worse than the suburbs or Toronto. Just boring.

FWIW, Kolesnikov's recent tax declaration said he made 20m in 2011.

Though he is the most transparent Ukrainian millionaire in a long time, if this is what he's admitting to who knows what he has hidden. The team could be a good way to make some money disappear ;)

http://hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/17926?lang=ru

Donbass has signed:
Peter Podhradski, Jaroslav Obsut, and Karel Pilar

http://hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/17926?lang=ru

Donbass has signed:
Peter Podhradski, Jaroslav Obsut, and Karel Pilar

As I said earlier, not many Russians if any will be on Donbass roster.

Why do you think that? Dry free agent market? Or is there no limit on non RUS/BLR/KAZ players for foreigner slots?

Why do you think that? Dry free agent market? Or is there no limit on non RUS/BLR/KAZ players for foreigner slots?

It indicates that Supler has a big saying on signings. Nothing wrong with that, he simply prefers Czech-Slovak players (would not be surprised if Marcel Hossa will sign in Ukraine too). But yeah, indeed there's more value to be found in non-Russian market.

FWIW, Kolesnikov's recent tax declaration said he made 20m in 2011.

Though he is the most transparent Ukrainian millionaire in a long time, if this is what he's admitting to who knows what he has hidden. The team could be a good way to make some money disappear ;)

I'd multiply that by about 5 at least.

after the year in CSKA i really don't like Supler...and all these signings are (with the exception of Obsut more or less) are pretty poor, Pilar is pure garbage.

after the year in CSKA i really don't like Supler...

Just don't say I didn't warn you. :laugh:

after the year in CSKA i really don't like Supler...and all these signings are (with the exception of Obsut more or less) are pretty poor, Pilar is pure garbage.

Fill me in, what'd he do?

Fill me in, what'd he do?

no team game whatsoever, promised to push young guys but put them away in the MHL, overplayed rubish washed up players such as Butsaev and Pronin, had a good roster and did absolutely nothing with it.

Just don't say I didn't warn you. :laugh:

you did....I mean there were other reasons why CSKA is failing lately (mostely $$ and turmoil in the management and ownership), but I can't believe this guy is getting job after job in the KHL...

no team game whatsoever, promised to push young guys but put them away in the MHL, overplayed rubish washed up players such as Butsaev and Pronin, had a good roster and did absolutely nothing with it.

sounds like the Leafs

but why did they remove Kulikov? I mean, he won them a championship, then did very well in the VHL. Was there really a reason not to hang on to him and give him a chance?

but why did they remove Kulikov? I mean, he won them a championship, then did very well in the VHL. Was there really a reason not to hang on to him and give him a chance?

Kulikov should have wont the VHL by a landslide with the roster he had - 1/2 or more were KHL guys.

why on Earth would Dinamo need him? he's so done and washed up..

I don't see Dinamo making this move.

Nikolishin was second leading scorer in Ukraine, and even Ivan Khomutov put up huge numbers.

Being MVP of PHL means nothing.

Yet it happens. Announced officially.

Yet it happens. Announced officially.

shock:help:

Vaclav Nedorost signed with Donetsk according to his agent.

link?

link?

hokej.cz, just a short message

http://hokej.cz/index.php?lng=CZ&webid=0&view=priklepy

this would put them at a 25 man roster

(these 7 + the rest who they didn't delete off their website roster)

this would put them at a 25 man roster

(these 7 + the rest who they didn't delete off their website roster)

Hardly anyone of those 25 will stay on or have any real playing time (unless they are one of those 5 local players). Kolesnikovs pipe dream of creating a first line of Semin, Poni and Fedotenko indicates, that transfer dealings are hardly over. It's only May.

the current 6 Ukes are: Liutkevych, Isayenko, Donika, Materukhin, Shafarenko, Varlamov

the current 6 Ukes are: Liutkevych, Isayenko, Donika, Materukhin, Shafarenko, Varlamov

Outside of Varlamov can any of the other Ukrainians play at the KHL level and have any success? It says on Eliteprospects that Isayenko was the captain of Donbass and Liutkevych and Shafarenko have spent some time in the KHL with Minsk, but can these guys really expect to compete or is the team just holding on to them for the KHL roster incase Ponikarovsky and Fedotenko stay in the NHL?

Isayenko - young, was captain of the team when it was in the Ukrainian league, and then shortly captain to start the VHL season before getting sent down to Donbass-2 and replaced by Varlamov. Young, leadership...I think they'll keep him

(edit: he likely wont be good enough for the KHL, but he's young enough that maybe they'll give him a shot. Plan B would be to just let him stay with Donbas-2)

Varlamov - has played in the K, is the captain, one of the best players on the team in the VHL, he stays

Materukhin - Just won the FHU's Player of the Year award. Played well in the VHL.


I think Liutkevych and Donika are the odd men out. Shafarenko is a wildcard depending on if they sign any other Ukrainians this offseason, but if not and Isayenko is sent down, he'll be on for sure.

Isayenko - young, was captain of the team when it was in the Ukrainian league, and then shortly captain to start the VHL season before getting sent down to Donbass-2 and replaced by Varlamov. Young, leadership...I think they'll keep him

Varlamov - has played in the K, is the captain, one of the best players on the team in the VHL, he stays

Materukhin - Just won the FHU's Player of the Year award. Played well in the VHL.


I think Liutkevych and Donika are the odd men out and Shafarenko is a wildcard depending on if they sign any other Ukrainians this offseason

Thanks for the insight. Looks like Isayenko is really the only guy who will be there long-term though as he's the only one south of 30. I'm interested to know more about him. What kind of game does he play? Is he a future bottom 6/depth player or does he have top 6 KHL potential?

Also, I saw that Kasyanchuk signed in the KHL. Why didn't Donbass go hard after him? He could have easily been one of the 5 Ukrainians that they need for their team, but instead signed in Moscow. I get the impression that Donetsk and Kiev are rivals and the only thing I can think of is that he'd rather play in Kiev and is hoping they'll get a team in the future.

hokej.cz, just a short message

http://hokej.cz/index.php?lng=CZ&webid=0&view=priklepy

http://hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/17966?lang=ru

Official now

Thanks for the insight. Looks like Isayenko is really the only guy who will be there long-term though as he's the only one south of 30. I'm interested to know more about him. What kind of game does he play? Is he a future bottom 6/depth player or does he have top 6 KHL potential?



Probably every Donbass Ukrainian will be an ineffective bottom six player.

Any news regarding this team? Has Donetsk made any move to sign Toryanik or Ramazanov? Both look like they may have KHL potential and are still young enough to be developed.

If this team is a success, what are the chances that Kiev gets a KHL team? Does Ukraine have enough KHL calibur players to be able to field at least 5 Ukrainians to each team, with Fedotenko, Ponikarovsky, Razin and Kasyanchuk playing elsewhere?

Any news regarding this team? Has Donetsk made any move to sign Toryanik or Ramazanov? Both look like they may have KHL potential and are still young enough to be developed.

If this team is a success, what are the chances that Kiev gets a KHL team? Does Ukraine have enough KHL calibur players to be able to field at least 5 Ukrainians to each team, with Fedotenko, Ponikarovsky, Razin and Kasyanchuk playing elsewhere?

I'm not sure what defines a successful club in the KHL in your eyes but I do think that Ukraine's chances of getting a second team are increased by the fact that the first one is in Donetsk and not in the capital, because IMO KHL are not that keen (putting it mildly) on having non-Russian teams in regional cities (that said Donetsk isn't that small to begin with).

I'm not sure anyone is capable of answering the remaining questions you are wondering about with anything but pretty wild speculations.

Any news regarding this team? Has Donetsk made any move to sign Toryanik or Ramazanov? Both look like they may have KHL potential and are still young enough to be developed.

If this team is a success, what are the chances that Kiev gets a KHL team? Does Ukraine have enough KHL calibur players to be able to field at least 5 Ukrainians to each team, with Fedotenko, Ponikarovsky, Razin and Kasyanchuk playing elsewhere?

I think there are good chances. I'm sure Sokil wanted to join with them being the top club and all, and always playing in better leagues like BOL or VHL. They couldnt make the jump but just might get enough inspiration to get actively pursuing it. Last year there was Budivelnyk Kiev that was close but fell through last minute because of arena problems. I think interest for a Kiev KHL team is more or less there, and with a successful team like Donbass setting an amazing example might make people get serious. I think Ukraine can sustain 2 KHL teams and eventually (10 yrs) have some new home-grown talent on it. I hear Donbass has a strong 98 class so they are 14 now and will be in their mid twenties in 10 yrs. The PHL getting better is a strong positive as well since that creates better players too and sparks hockey interest in the country.

I hear Donbass has a strong 98 class so they are 14 now and will be in their mid twenties in 10 yrs.
swedish coach Jim Brithen is working with them. You can find interesting articles with him at Donbass website. Kids played tourney in Stockholm during april, were 2nd or so.

I think Ukraine can sustain 2 KHL teams

If there's enough willing owners who can piss away at least 10 M$ per year, Ukraine can sustain hundred KHL clubs. Even if there would multiple Kiev-sized cities in the Ukraine, it's all about the ownership and not any other variable.

If there's enough willing owners who can piss away at least 10 M$ per year, Ukraine can sustain hundred KHL clubs. Even if there would multiple Kiev-sized cities in the Ukraine, it's all about the ownership and not any other variable.

The money right now is in Donetsk. That's why they have a team. There aren't any big oligarchs based in Kiev.

The money right now is in Donetsk. That's why they have a team. There aren't any big oligarchs based in Kiev.

That's not the point of my post.

But surely there are more than enough oligarchs in Kiev (they doesn't even have to have such a deep pockets like Kolesnikov have), they simply doesn't care for the hockey. :( Soccer is the name of the game in the city. Knowing that the budget of no name soccer team in Latvia has a budget of 2-4M $, it's easy to speculate that budgets of each Kiev's three soccer teams are at least three times as big. And I don't even want to think how unholy huge is the budget of Dynamo alone.

Dynamo aren't being funded as a pet project like Shakhtar are. They are relatively self funded. Sokil would have a tough time making the dynamo model profitable. They'd néed an owner to fund the entire project and Kiev doesn't have people like Akhmetov that want to buy off those he stole from.

who needs Obolon' or Arsenal??? fold one - there's your money for Sokol.

The money right now is in Donetsk. That's why they have a team. There aren't any big oligarchs based in Kiev.

Not entirely true. I mean, Kolomoisky is from Dnipropetrovsk but he wanted to get the team (Budivelnyk) in Kiev - he said he didn't want the team in Dnipro, only Kiev. There are a bunch of oligarchs in Dnipro as well, but I doubt it gets a team.

Kolesnik, owner of Donbas...he's from Donetsk and has the team there, but lives in Kiev

so yeah, the money comes from the oligarch groups in other cities, but in the end they wind up in the capital, and it's the next logical place to blow some cash on a team

Not entirely true. I mean, Kolomoisky is from Dnipropetrovsk but he wanted to get the team (Budivelnyk) in Kiev - he said he didn't want the team in Dnipro, only Kiev.

Kolesnik, owner of Donbas...he's from Donetsk and has the team there, but lives in Kiev

so yeah, the money comes from the oligarch groups in other cities, but in the end they wind up in the capital, and it's the next logical place to blow some cash on a team

The guys from Dnipro I could see putting a team in Kiev. They are on the losing end right now in their rivalry with the Donetsk clan. Could be a starting point to try and win the loyalty in Kiev. Problem is most people in Kiev don't think the same way as in Donetsk. In Donetsk they feel loyalty to the oligarchs because they clean the city up. I guess it doesn't matter that they stole your money to do it. People in Kharkov wish they had their own Akhmetov. :shakehead

I guess that's what happens when you live your whole life surrounded by propaganda *sigh*

the current 6 Ukes are: Liutkevych, Isayenko, Donika, Materukhin, Shafarenko, Varlamov

Well Shafarenko's (and Oseledets too) picture has been pulled from Donbass website. Does it means anything, hard to tell.

Laco just got awarded best goaltender in the WCs

really loving this signing!

HCD signs Erik Ersberg and Petteri Wirtanen

http://www.hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/18447?lang=ru

Any word on what the structure of Ukrainian hockey will take since Donetsk will officially play in the KHL? From what I gather, most people on here doubt that a team will advance to the VHL to take over and act as a farm club for Donbass, but Donbass-2 will instead play in the Ukrainian league. However, what will happen as far as junior ranks are concerned? Will an MHL and MHL-B team be created or just one or will they not create anything like that?

IMO they need to have a natural progression. Maybe have a MHL-B team for their weaker prospects, MHL team for their best prospects, and when those players graduate they can play in the Ukrainian league until they're ready for the KHL.

As I know, Donbass-2 (ukrainian league) will consist of young players (cca 21 years + a few older). Main team will be in KHL. I did not hear about MHL/ MHL B team for next season, but IMO Donbass will create MHL/MHL B team in near future.

Donbas-2 acting as a farm team is the best solution. A VHL team would be pointless.

Donbas-2 acting as a farm team is the best solution. A VHL team would be pointless.

i disagree, the the level of PHL is lower than RSL, any weackest VHL team wouldn't loose a game in PHL. How are you going to develop players for KHL in such a league is beyond me.

i disagree, the the level of PHL is lower than RSL, any weackest VHL team wouldn't loose a game in PHL. How are you going to develop players for KHL in such a league is beyond me.

we're comparing MHL to PHL, not VHL to PHL

we're comparing MHL to PHL, not VHL to PHL

MHL-A is miles above PHL. and aren't you the one saying VHL team is pointless....get your stuff straight!

I said having a second farm team in the VHL would be pointless

I said having a second farm team in the VHL would be pointless

I understood that you mean Donbass-2 in PHL is good enough, no need to have a VHL team at all...my bet if I had misunderstood.

yeah, I mean, have D2 in the PHL until they are set up to enter that team into the MHL

but having a VHL team of adult players, in addition to likely having a PHL team of adult players....4 teams? Just seems like overkill

Major, minor, and junior. Perfect scenario.

Pasi Puistola rumoured to Donbass.

his numbers are pretty terrible, why even bother? or is he some sort of defensive wizard?

his numbers are pretty terrible, why even bother? or is he some sort of defensive wizard?

EP report: A skilled and all-round defenseman. Puistola has good mobility and soft skating. Offensive minded with a good hockey sense. Very valuable on the powerplay with a good release and fine passing ability.

http://eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=7597

official now

http://www.hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/18493?lang=ru

Puistola is a good player will be missed in Cherepovets

http://www.hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/18497?lang=ru

according to this KHL official, Donbass is already accepted into the league

- Fans club undoubtedly concerned with the question: when will officially "Donbass" will be adopted in the NHL?
- As far as I know, the decision on the "Donbas" is already taken. Starting next season, the hockey club "Donbass" will be a participant of the Kontinental Hockey League.

- This decision is supported by any documentation or license?
- No. This decision is the league. Board members expressed their opinions and voted for the inclusion of the hockey club "Donbass" in the composition of the Championship League.

I see no reason why Donbass fans should worry, the thing is Medvedev really wants an Ukrainian team in the league and that's it.

of course that Donbass is already accepted. Donbass will draft tommorow, so club has to be member of a league. We all know story of Budyvelnik, but it wont happen to Donbass IMO..

todays article from draft game..
Во второй драфт-жеребьевке участвуют новички КХЛ – донецкий «Донбасс», братиславский «Слован» и пражский «Лев». Они разыграют последовательность выбора в промежутке с 24-го по 26-й.

Will be interesting to see what will be their draft approach. Will they go after Russians or Czechslovaks?

Donbass will be in the PO, I think LEV will push for P/O, I see Riga/Cherepovets out of the P/O this year, may be even my CSKA.. Slovan will be fighting not to be last if Vityaz' is out of the league, if not - than they have nothing to worry about)

Donbass will be in the PO, I think LEV will push for P/O, I see Riga/Cherepovets out of the P/O this year, may be even my CSKA.. Slovan will be fighting not to be last if Vityaz' is out of the league, if not - than they have nothing to worry about)

I think Slovan will fight for PO's and definately not be a bottom team.

Donbass has a PO team on paper but most players are new, most from different leagues, many speak different languages, and as you mentioned before, the coach is not that good. I think they will make PO, but wont be surprised if they fall a little short.

I would agree with cska78 about Slovan´s debut season in KHL. If I look at current roster, I see weaker team than Poprad was. Slovan has younger guys, so it can have posiive influence on game. D-core is really weak. No sniper, no playmaker, no goalie. We have to wait a few weeks to know full roster. Judging by current roster I say it is weak.. lets wait

I would agree with cska78 about Slovan´s debut season in KHL. If I look at current roster, I see weaker team than Poprad was. Slovan has younger guys, so it can have posiive influence on game. D-core is really weak. No sniper, no playmaker, no goalie. We have to wait a few weeks to know full roster. Judging by current roster I say it is weak.. lets wait

Maybe yes, a weak roster right now but like you said they will sign more players. IMO they are a winning team, top of Extraliga, and also have signed a few Kosice players that are also very good. They are drawing young talent and will grow as season goes on. Good coaching, good system, lots of fans, good management. Maybe not playoffs but definately above Vityaz's level IMO

Is Vityaz seriously getting the boot? Where will they go?

Is Vityaz seriously getting the boot? Where will they go?

they should be in the VHL and if they get a boot, that's where they go.

http://isport.ua/hockey/ukraine/news/202980.html

Shafarenko going to Yunost Minsk


...they should really rename that team

Did Donbass draft any Ukrainians or just foreigners?

Did Donbass draft any Ukrainians or just foreigners?

The only Ukrainian was drafted by CSKA Moscow. Ironic that he was on Donbass books before the draft.

Did Donbass draft any Ukrainians or just foreigners?

Donbass wanted to draft D Lysenko (http://eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=108647), but he was protected by Atlant. So, only foreigners. I dont know if Morozov has double citizeship or not.

Hampus Lindholm (D) (http://eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=34882)
Mikko Vainonen (D) (http://eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=43289)
Egor Mozorov (F) (http://eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=159648)
Henri Ikonen (F) (http://eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=56268)
Vladimir Abashkin from Magnitka

Morozov is a phantom, can't find his place of birth on any site (mhl, his teams, anywhere) but since the Donbass site called him a Russian, I doubt he's dual

will any of these guys get contract offers to play for Donbas-2?



and also at this time it appears they drafted Erik Karlsson out of Frolunda, not the Finn

will any of these guys get contract offers to play for Donbas-2?


you have to ask Donbass GM :sarcasm: Be honest, foreigners are too young to play KHL, not good enough, dont want to live in Ukraine (another culture, better condition for hockey development at home). Would be great to know how they are ranked among NHL scouts? Are they top prospects of a year in respective country? So, IMO they wont play Donbass-2 next season, their home league is bettter I think.

Russian kids (maybe dual citizen) - Lada will play MHL B, will Abashkin make roster of Magnitka´s MHL team? If not, he can move to another MHL club. I dont thing he would like to play for Donbass (MHL is better than PHL).

Donbass hold rights for foreigners until 30.april of a year when players are 29 y old. For russian kids it is until 30.april of a year when players are 22 y old.

Morozov is a phantom, can't find his place of birth on any site (mhl, his teams, anywhere) but since the Donbass site called him a Russian, I doubt he's dual


Both Russians have travelled a fair bit in their careers already - Abashkin actually finished last season with Izhstal Izhevsk which supposedly is his native team, but for Morozov Lada is his third club already. Morozov's earliest stats say are from AK Bars youth team and they have had some Ukrainian born kids on their ranks in recent memory, he might as well be a local. So who knows, hopefully Donbass will write a few lines about these kids, but unlikely, that they have actually seen them in action.

http://www.belarushockey.com/rb/news_list/news115668/

Does this say Materukhin is going back to Yunost, or that he might?

http://www.belarushockey.com/rb/news_list/news115668/

Does this say Materukhin is going back to Yunost, or that he might?

might

http://www.belarushockey.com/rb/news_list/news115668/

Does this say Materukhin is going back to Yunost, or that he might?

I kinda though that he (and some other better Ukrainians) would end up in Krasnodar, seeing that two former Ukraine internationals will coach Kuban and they will have to find a whole new roster in a short time if they are allowed in VHL.

Would be interesting to see a VHL team in Kuban or Rostov-on-Don act as a farm affiliate for the Donbass team

Kuban' will have the money, and already stated that the goal is to be in the KHL and VHL is just a gap stop like the case with Donbass. Rostov on the other hand has no money, my home town could benefit being a Dobnas' farm.

by "has the money" does that mean they have a viable financial backer for the long run, or they are cobbling together "investors" who may or may not flake when the time comes? or is this more state funding?

by "has the money" does that mean they have a viable financial backer for the long run, or they are cobbling together "investors" who may or may not flake when the time comes? or is this more state funding?

we will see, the amount of money funneled through Krasnodarskiy Kray prior to Olympics is insane - this is turned out in two PL soccer teams, one elite Basketball team and now a VHL hockey team prior to that the area was as poor as Rostov is now.

Šupler said for slovak media that club wants to sign one more American and Swede. No details about possitions.

Šupler said for slovak media that club wants to sign one more American and Swede. No details about possitions.

I'd think that they'd likely sign more than one North American if they're going to go that route. It would be very hard for a North American to adapt to Eastern Europe completely on their own not knowing the language, etc. Just like when Eastern European's come to the NHL and their team tends to have at least one other person who speaks their language.

I'd think that they'd likely sign more than one North American if they're going to go that route. It would be very hard for a North American to adapt to Eastern Europe completely on their own not knowing the language, etc. Just like when Eastern European's come to the NHL and their team tends to have at least one other person who speaks their language.

agree, Šupler said: "na lane je aj jeden Švéd a Američan" So, it means that it is almost done deal with one Swede/American. Maybe club negotiates with more Americans, I dont know, but negotiations are not so close to signature like with this American guy... my opinion

I'd think that they'd likely sign more than one North American if they're going to go that route. It would be very hard for a North American to adapt to Eastern Europe completely on their own not knowing the language, etc. Just like when Eastern European's come to the NHL and their team tends to have at least one other person who speaks their language.

The American could easily be playing in Europe already, so who knows. If they wouldn't have two goalies already, I'd bet on Chris Holt, but now...

http://bighockey.ua/news/donbas-vstupiv-u-konkurenciyu-z-nhl.html

more speculation about the mystery swede

and denied reports about trying to get kovalev and slava kozlo

http://bighockey.ua/news/donbas-vstupiv-u-konkurenciyu-z-nhl.html

more speculation about the mystery swede

and denied reports about trying to get kovalev and slava kozlo

so young F, Swede, maybe NHL potential, playing in Sweden. Any idea?

http://isport.ua/hockey/ukraine/news/203528.html

apparently there is smoke to the Kovalev/Kozlov rumor they were trying to dispell; says they offered them contracts but are in no hurry

According to rules, Donbass needs one guy under 20 and 21 years, born 1991/1992. Now club has two guys born 1994, but I dont think they are good enough for KHL. Club can sign another 2 guys under 20 (born 1991) to be able to dress 20 skaters in game instead of 18.

So, info about young Swede is interesting...

VHL awards are out

http://www.hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/18539?lang=ru

Donbas:
Best defender - Vladimir Malevich, "Donbass", Donetsk (50 (14 +36) points, a rating: 21)
Best Club - "Donbass", Donetsk
The best official site - "Donbass", Donetsk
Cup winner's Western Conference championship and bronze medals VHL - "Donbass", Donetsk

we will see, the amount of money funneled through Krasnodarskiy Kray prior to Olympics is insane - this is turned out in two PL soccer teams, one elite Basketball team and now a VHL hockey team prior to that the area was as poor as Rostov is now.

And FC Krasnodar got promoted to the RPL mysteriously, although Kuban earned it.

And FC Krasnodar got promoted to the RPL mysteriously, although Kuban earned it.

yes, they probably paid the teams ahead of them off. In all seriousness those teams probably had no interest of promoting anyways.

There (http://govorit.donetsk.ua/transfery-i-perepodpisaniya-khk-donbass-na-puti-v-kkhl.html)is written that Henri Ikonen, born 94, signed with Donbass. He was drafted by Donbass at KHL draft 2012. Can we believe it? I dont think so.. any reliable source?

So with Curtis Sanford and Kolesnik signing in Yaroslavl where does Gaiduchenko fit in their plans? Eliteprospects has him on their roster, but no contract information. It doesn't seem like he's needed/wanted there.

So with Curtis Sanford and Kolesnik signing in Yaroslavl where does Gaiduchenko fit in their plans? Eliteprospects has him on their roster, but no contract information. It doesn't seem like he's needed/wanted there.

VHL farm - starting goalie...I personally thing he's a toast, at best a very later bloomer, the flaws in his technique are too immense.

VHL farm - starting goalie...I personally thing he's a toast, at best a very later bloomer, the flaws in his technique are too immense.

Why would he go there rather than playing as a back up for Donbass? As a Ukrainian he'd definitely get KHL playing time and could likely be their number one goalie in the next couple years and would likely be guaranteed the starting job with the National Team.

It just doesn't make sense to me that either Donetsk wouldn't want him or that he wouldn't want to go there.

Why would he go there rather than playing as a back up for Donbass? As a Ukrainian he'd definitely get KHL playing time and could likely be their number one goalie in the next couple years and would likely be guaranteed the starting job with the National Team.

It just doesn't make sense to me that either Donetsk wouldn't want him or that he wouldn't want to go there.


It makes sense. Gaiducheko currently isn't half the goalie Laco and Ersberg is. Even if Gaiduchenko signed there's no guarantees that he won't be out of job few years later down the road (it's more likely scenario then the one where he grows into a KHL starter). Being a goalie of third tier national team isn't worth anything to him and that Ukrainian passport could severly hurt his wallet in a long term and maybe he feel more Russian than Ukrainian anyway.

Did Lokomotiv use its right to sign players from other KHL clubs or not? You know, rule as a adventage for Lokomotiv after air crash..
If Lokomotiv used it, Donbass had no chance to sign Gaiduchenko.

Would be nice if they signed Gaiduchenko to a PHL contract to be their allstar goalie down there; how much could he possibly make in the VHL vs. PHL for Donbass?

http://www.hcdonbass.com/home/news/news/18563?lang=ru

had no idea the new Donetsk arena will be 18,000 seats large, holy ****


Supler also mentions again the Swede and American they are trying to sign, and that they hope to have at least 5 Ukrainians on the roster, and currently have 8

had no idea the new Donetsk arena will be 18,000 seats large, holy ****
do you want bigger? Btw this interview is from slovak press, I would not believe it is final version of arena... I will wait :)

Well Shupler said it, not the press