Dmitri Kostenko, a defensive prospect for the Montreal Canadiens, was selected in the third round of the 2021 NHL Draft, 87th overall. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 196 pounds, the Togliatti, Russia native has shown flashes of potential but remains a developmental project.
Strengths:
Kostenko’s strength lies in his skating and offensive creativity. He excels when carrying the puck, often creating plays through deceptive movements, such as no-look passes and threading the puck into tight spaces. His ability to navigate the offensive zone with poise is a key part of his game.
Weaknesses:
Defensively, Kostenko needs refinement. He can be caught out of position and at times seems disengaged when defending in his own zone. His tendency to rush plays, leading to turnovers, is another area of concern. He also needs to improve his decision-making under pressure.
Player Details:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | September 25, 2002 |
| Drafted | 2021, 3rd round, 87th overall (MTL) |
| Height | 6’2″ (188 cm) |
| Weight | 196 lbs (89 kg) |
| Hometown | Togliatti, Russia |
| Position | Defense |
| National Team | Russia |
