Published: 9 October, 2009, 17:02
Edited: 9 October, 2009, 17:02
This is one of those stories with a happy ending. Although it hasn't finished yet.
Can't say a lot about CSKA's game at the moment, simply because so far it's difficult to understand what new coach Sergey Nemchinov wants from his players. But there is one certain reason to watch them in action. Its name is Denis Parshin.
This summer, Russian papers were full of headlines on Parshin and his friend and team-mate Sergey Shirokov. Both wanted to quit CSKA for the NHL, despite their present contracts with the Army Men. But only one of them succeeded.
Shirokov received a one-year ban from the KHL for not following the league regulations. And while he is now trying to establish himself as a first-team player at the Vancouver Canucks, Parshin is still making headlines in the home press. This time the priority is given to his hockey skills, though.
The 23-year-old is the undisputed CSKA leader this season, having been voted the club's MVP by the fans in September. Parshin leads the side's offense, insisting, however, he's only a part of a good team. But few can doubt, the always-smiling sniper will be CSKA's main argument in their play-off spot hunt.
Parshin's agent takes every chance to underline that his client was 'forced' to sign the current contract. The player, meanwhile, holds no regrets and is worth every ruble of his deal. And if he keeps improving, he will be able to set his sights on the upcoming Olympics.