The arrogant stunt of the ex-NHL star stirs up Russia: "The cancer of the locker room"

In the KHL, former NHL forward Daniel Sprong, 29, starting his second season, caused outrage with his behavior during a practice match on Saturday.

The Dutch forward’s team, Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg, won the practice match against Traktor Chelyabinsk after overtime with a score of 4-3. Sprong scored the winning goal in overtime.

After his goal, Sprong looked towards his teammates, patted his chest, and shouted, “this is why I am the best.”

Sprong’s gesture was considered extremely arrogant. The KHL published a video of the incident on X, which filled up with disapproving comments.

– This is why he is not in the NHL.

– Still unbearable.

– The cancer of the locker room.

– I have never seen a professional hockey player celebrate so selfishly.

One reason speculated for Sprong’s behavior was trade rumors surrounding him. Russian media reported just a day earlier that Yekaterinburg was looking to terminate Sprong’s contract, but the club dismissed these claims.

Sprong started the last KHL season with CSKA Moscow. He recorded 31 points in 29 games (12+19=31) and was the team’s most effective player, but he was removed from the lineup for the entire month of December. The club’s head coach Igor Nikitin stated at that time that he preferred to play players who contribute to the team and hinted that Sprong’s individual statistics did not lead the team to success.

In January, Sprong moved to Yekaterinburg. He played 23 regular season games with the team, scoring 33 points (18+15=33) and six playoff games with 7 points (5+2). Sprong’s contract with the club is valid for the upcoming season.

Sprong has frequently changed teams throughout his career. During his ten-year professional career, he has represented 13 different clubs.

The Pittsburgh Penguins drafted Sprong in the 2nd round in 2015. He has played 374 regular season games in the NHL (87+79=166) and 14 playoff games (1+2). In addition to Pittsburgh, Sprong has represented the Anaheim Ducks, Washington Capitals, Seattle Kraken, Detroit Red Wings, Vancouver Canucks, and New Jersey Devils.