The Montreal Canadiens have quietly been laying the groundwork for their future, and it seems they may have uncovered a hidden gem that few fans are talking about—yet.

While the spotlight often shines on the team’s high-profile prospects and blockbuster trades, there’s a lesser-known name lurking in the shadows, one that could soon become a crucial piece of the Canadiens’ defensive puzzle.

Recent whispers from within the organization suggest that this young talent possesses a rare combination of hockey intelligence and defensive prowess, drawing intriguing comparisons to one of the NHL’s most reliable blue-liners.

But why are insiders so excited about this particular prospect? What makes him stand out in a crowded field of hopefuls, and why is his development being watched so closely by Montreal’s management?

Even more mysterious is the fact that, despite his potential, fans might have to wait longer than expected to see him don the Canadiens jersey.

As rumors swirl and experts weigh in, questions abound: Could this unheralded player be the next big thing for Montreal? What’s keeping him overseas, and how might his unique skill set reshape the team’s future? The answers may surprise you—read on to discover the full story.

Apr 16, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Alexandre Carrier (45) shoots the puck against the Carolina Hurricanes in the first period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The name Bogdan Konyushkov doesn’t make much noise on this side of the ocean, but according to many, he is a player to watch for the Montreal Canadiens.

The 6-foot, 170-pound right-handed defenseman (yes, that’s light) is not known for his offensive game.

Don’t expect huge production from him when he comes over to North America.

It’s rather his defensive play and hockey IQ that convinced Canadiens management to draft him 110th overall in the 2023 draft.

“Igor Larionov had him on his team and I played with him so I asked about him.

He told me that he was one of his smartest defensemen and that he had great potential, on top of being a good person.

He’s a little older (20 years old) and Nick saw him on video.”

– Martin Lapointe

Bogdan Konyushkov: A Future Alexandre Carrier

Recruiters’ analysis is all well and good, but what about the young man now at 22 years old?

In a recent episode of the podcast Habsent Mind from the site Eyes On The Prize, journalist William Shoukri was asked what the best comparable for Konyushkov would be.

His answer was quite simple: Alexandre Carrier.

Without being flashy, the Quebec defenseman is reliable, and you can put him on the ice without fearing a mistake.

Coaches will tell you they love this type of player, and every team needs one.

Knowing that the Canadiens have a potential replacement for Carrier (who is 28) is quite reassuring.

Especially since we know that Konyushkov won’t be coming to North America for a while yet, as he recently extended his contract by one more season with Torpedo in the KHL.

“Montreal Canadiens defensive prospect Bogdan Konyushkov has extended his KHL contract with Torpedo until May 30, 2027.

That would make it four seasons from the time he was drafted by the Canadiens that his contract expires.”

He therefore cannot make the jump to the NHL before June 1, 2027.

This gives him plenty of time to perfect his game and, who knows, polish his offensive skills a little.

In 67 games last season in the KHL, the defenseman recorded 17 points, including 3 goals. He added a goal during his team’s four playoff games.