I predict a big failure. You can't coach effectively without being able to communicate effectively with players. There is a good reason all head coaches in NHL are English (or French-English) speakers. Only three Metallurg players are English speakers . Even though some players may have basic language knowledge, this will not be enough for Keenan to become an effective coach. The argument of Russian players getting by fine in NHL is not that valid. They are young and learn quick from their teammates simply by being here. It is going to be quite a different learning process for Keenan over there. Plus, based on what Warrener said on the radio, Keenan acts really nasty with non-star players, which is not going to make him well–liked.
All of the above could be irrelevant, as I heard that KHL team owners often try to bring big names just for bragging rights, which might be the case here too, of course.
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