Career Drafted by St.Louis (10th choice, 229th overall) in the 1996 NHL Entry Draft Began his hockey career in Ust-Kamenogorsk ... Played in the Soviet League for Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk from 1989-90 to 1993-94 ... In 1993-94, had a short stint (four games) with Detroit of the Colonial Hockey League ... In 1994-95 and 1995-96 played for Metallurg Magnitogorsk ... Joined Fort Wayne of the International Hockey League at the beginning of 1995-96 season ... Had a very successful season, recording 46 goals and 28 assists for 74 points in 74 games ... Won the Garry F. Longman Memorial Trophy as the top rookie of IHL ... Started the1996-97 season with St.Louis (five games), but spent the major part of the season with the farm club in Worcester (American Hockey League).