Moscow Dynamo head coach Leonid Tambiyev has offered a candid assessment of forward Semyon Der-Arguchintsev, stating the player was more effective during his time with Chelyabinsk's Traktor than he has been since joining the capital club.
Speaking to reporters, Tambiyev acknowledged that Der-Arguchintsev's agent has indicated the player's intention to continue his career within the Toronto Maple Leafs' system in the NHL. The coach confirmed he has not yet had a direct conversation with the forward, as the player is currently away, but plans to speak with him upon his return.
"Semyon is a player I like. I haven't communicated with him yet. I know he is currently away. When he arrives, we will talk. He is a good player," Tambiyev said, as quoted by correspondent Sergei Yemelyanov of Championat.com.
The coach elaborated on his evaluation, noting that he was impressed by Der-Arguchintsev's performances when Dynamo faced Traktor in the playoffs. In Tambiyev's view, the forward looked stronger in a Traktor uniform.
"It seems to me that at Traktor he looked stronger, and at Dynamo he dissolved," Tambiyev stated. "This is an interesting hockey player who can play stronger. First of all, he is interesting in attack. An interesting player with the puck. At Traktor he was stronger."
The comments highlight a perceived dip in form for the young forward since his move to Moscow. Der-Arguchintsev, known for his offensive skills and puck-handling ability, has not yet replicated the level of play that caught Tambiyev's eye during their playoff encounters.
While the player's future may lie in North America, Tambiyev's remarks suggest a desire to unlock the potential he previously witnessed. The planned conversation between coach and player will be a key step in determining Der-Arguchintsev's role and future with Dynamo Moscow.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.