Bogdan Konyushkov (Photo by HC Torpedo)
Bogdan Konyushkov is a promising young defenseman known for his poise and strong two-way play. Currently playing for Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod in the KHL, he has quickly risen as a key contributor on their blue line. The Montreal Canadiens prospect combines excellent hockey IQ with solid skating and a physical edge, making him a standout among prospects. His impressive development has drawn attention from NHL scouts, signalling a bright future ahead.
In an exclusive interview with RG, Konyushkov has spoken about his development of late; citing a small dip in his usual offensive production, in favour of more attention to the defensive side of his game.
“My stats could be better, like they were last year and the year before. I don't know why they’re not as good this year; maybe my finishing isn't good. Sometimes, I create chances, but my teammates don't finish them,” said the young defenseman. “But it's okay. The most important thing for me is always about making sure the team wins. Personal results will come sooner or later, but team victories are my priority.”
Preparing For The NHL
Despite still having a few years left on his contract, Konyushkov remains committed to one day achieving his dream of playing in the NHL and chasing the Stanley Cup. But, before he can do that, he knows he needs to get stronger and increase his physicality in order to make a seamless transition to North America.
“There is always something to improve. Experience is important, of course, but that comes with time,” said Konyushkov. “The physical aspect is crucial. We talk with Nikolai Kovalenko a lot and he says, that even with his skills, it's hard in the NHL. So, there is always room to grow.”
While working on his physical growth, one of the biggest aids in reaching his goals has been Konyushkov’s attention to his diet. Having been intrigued by the impacts of proper nutrition in building up his body, Konyushkov sought to get more knowledgeable on the subject, even picking the brain of head coach and HHOFer, Igor Larionov.
“I started getting interested in nutrition when I was 17. Proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and so on,” said the KHL All-Star.
"I was also lucky to get to work with Igor Larionov, who is very knowledgeable about this and looks great at 64. He knows a lot about that.”
One veteran that has been a huge help for the young rearguard has been former NHL defenseman, Slava Voynov. The 34-year-old defender has played over 10 seasons in the KHL over his career and has helped Konyushkov to better prepare himself as a professional hockey player.
“Everything, starting with his behavior off the ice, how he prepares before training, what he does after training, and what recovery methods he uses,” said Konyushkov of his veteran teammate. “He also gives me some tips on the ice. It's interesting to ask him how he would play in a given situation; especially on the power play.”
Following The Montreal Canadiens
After a breakout season in the KHL at 20-years-old, Konyushkov was selected 110th overall in the 2023 NHL Draft by the Montreal Canadiens.
He’s put up some excellent numbers over the last couple of seasons and has been one of the most consistent defensemen in the KHL, but, despite that, the Canadiens haven’t spent too much time getting to know him yet.
Konyushkov extended his contract by an additional three years with Torpedo a few months after being drafted, so it seems the Canadiens are in no rush to forge strong relations with him just yet; preferring to wait and see how he develops.
Despite not necessarily being the organization’s most prized prospect, Konyushkov admits that the Canadiens have every right to be involved in Ivan Demidov’s development. After all, they did pick him 5th overall, and not in the middle of the draft.
Despite being rivals in the KHL, Konyushkov instantly sent praise Demidov’s way; and believes that the excitement Canadiens fans have shown toward his eventual debut with the Habs is more than warranted.
“He deserves everything he’s got coming to him,” said Konyushkov of his fellow countryman.
“I follow a lot of Montreal fans on social media and people who follow the news. They are impatiently waiting for him and constantly write about how excited they are for him to finally arrive; even making jerseys with his name on it. I think, he will live up to all expectations.”
Although he may not hear much from the Montreal Canadiens on a regular basis, that hasn’t stopped Konyushkov from following the team on a regular basis. He’s especially been impressed with the play of rookie sensation, Lane Hutson; who leads all Canadiens defensemen in scoring.
“I like how he skates, his vision on the ice, his one-on-one battles,” said Konyushkov. “He’s a very good and smart player. When Montreal finishes rebuilding, he will help them a lot.”
There is a world where both players may one day they’ll be on the same pairing together in Montreal. But that will have to wait until at least the start of the 2026-27 season, as Konyushkov’s contract with Torpedo was extended until the end of the 2025-26 season in the KHL.
Sergey has been in sports journalism since 2007 as a reporter, editor, and manager. He has covered the Olympic Games, soccer World Cups, the World Cup of Hockey in 2016, the European championships, the Stanley Cup Finals, IOC events, and many others. Sergey interviewed the sport's greatest athletes, coaches, and executives. Since 2016, he has been an Independent Senior Editor of NHL.com/ru.
