We hardly knew ye. (Photo credit: Chris Gordon)

Washington Capitals goaltending prospect Sergey Kostenko has left the organization and will return to Russia to compete for a spot with his home team, Metallurg Novokuznetsk, the team’s head coach Alexander Kitov told Novokuznetsk Sports Portal. Last year, off-season shoulder surgery, several injuries, and an organizational goalie logjam limited Kostenko to just six games with the ECHL’s Reading Royals. Later in the season, Kostenko was loaned to the Ontario Reign where he made three more starts.

Kitov also commented on the future of two other Novokuznetsk-natives: Capitals defenseman Dmitry Orlov and Winnipeg Jets forward Ivan Telegin.

From Novokuznetsk Sports Portal:

Kostenko returns to Novokuznetsk. He’ll come here tomorrow or day after [Kitov said a few days ago]. As far as I know, he has ended his relationship with his North American partners. If Sergei doesn’t ask for a trade, he’ll attend Metallurg camp. He can prove he can be competitive here. We’re not throwing away players like that especially since we know him well. I think he’s experienced for his level. He’ll get his chance to prove himself.

In regards to Telegin – we had talks with his agent. But Ivan has one more year on his contract with the Jets and he’ll try to crack the NHL roster. Otherwise we’d be pleased to invite him.

Orlov’s situation is a little different. I’d say Dima doesn’t really want [to come back] at this point. But we’re working and we stay in touch with everyone.

The Capitals will still control Kostenko’s rights if he ever chooses to return in the future.

Thanks to Caser for finding the story.