Transformation. Ukrainian giant, Fortson replacement and Montenegrin prospect

The VTB United League and Sport-Express present our Transformation series, highlighting the new faces expected to have a huge impact in the upcoming season. This week, we look at Ukrainian center Kyrylo Fesenko's move to Lokomotiv-Kuban; Malcolm Armstead's signing in Saratov, where he replaces Courtney Fortson; and Khimki's coup of Montenegrin prospect Marko Todorovic.

Kyrylo Fesenko, Lokomotiv-Kuban

Position: Center
Country: Ukraine
Age: 28
Former Clubs: Azovmash, Ukraine (2003-06), Cherkasskie Mavpy, Ukraine (2006-07), Utah, NBA (2007-11), Indiana, NBA (2012), Donetsk, Ukraine (2013), Delaware, NBA D-League (2014), Canton, NBA D-League (2014), Avtodor, Russia (2014-15)
2014-15 Season Stats: 15.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.6 blocks in 25.5 minutes per game in the VTB United League

An injury to starting center Artem Klimenko last November meant Avtodor had to scramble for a replacement. In a brilliant stroke, Saratov signed Kyrylo Fesenko, who enjoyed a breakout season in Russia, helping Saratov to the postseason, while drawing interest from top Russian and European clubs.

After struggling to make an impact in the D-League, Fesenko was determined to get his career back on track. He quickly proved his doubters wrong in the VTB United League, using his size and strength to dominate the paint and regularly contend for Player of the Month honors. Now he's expected to bolster Lokomotiv-Kuban's frontcourt. The Ukrainian national team captain will help Krasnodar control the glass, shut down opposing centers and score at will around the basket. Lokomotiv will be very motivated to get Fesenko the ball in the paint whenever possible.

He's going to be a key piece for new head coach Georgios Bartzokas, who wants to run more halfcourt offense. With the superathletic Anthony Randolph, an elite defender in Brian Randle and the physically dominant Fesenko, Krasnodar will have one of the top frontcourts in the VTB United League and, perhaps, all of Europe.

Malcolm Armstead, Avtodor

Position: Guard
Country: USA
Age: 26
Former Clubs: Chipola College, NJCAA (2008-09), Oregon University, NCAA (2009-11), Wichita State University, NCAA (2012-13), KRKA, Slovenia (2013-15)
2014-15 Season Stats: 17.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 2.1 steals in 29.3 minutes per game in the Adriatic League

Rookie club Avtodor was one of the most entertaining teams in the league last season, led by explosive, relentless point guard Courtney Fortson. The American moved to Banvit this summer for a pay raise, but don't expect Avtodor's trademark style of play to change much. The team's #1 priority during the offseason was finding someone special who could replace Fortson.

The man for the job will be Malcolm Armstead. The Saratov front office is convinced that the former KRKA star will help the fans quickly forget about Fortson. Given his insane 2014-15 season in Slovenia, don't be surprised if they are right. The American guard averaged 17.6 points per game in the Adriatic League last season to win the scoring title. He was also named the top point guard and placed on the all-league team. The Alabama native even led the league in steals (2.1 per game) and finished 5th in assists (4.3). Finally, he picked up honors for Top Foreign Player and Defensive Player of the Year, a dizzying array of awards and accomplishments.

Saratov point guards are expected to be explosive on offense and constantly push the tempo. Armstead can do both. He's almost certain to be a fan favorite at Avtodor and one of the league's most exciting players.

Marko Todorovic, Khimki

Position: Power forward/center
Country: Montenegro
Age: 23
Former Clubs: Joventud, Spain (2010-12), Barcelona, Spain (2012-14), Bilbao, Spain (2014-15)
2014-15 Season Stats: 11.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.0 blocks in 27 minutes per game in the ACB League.

Montenegrin Marko Todorovic is considered one of the most talented big men in Europe. Given Khimki's ambitions, the expensive forward is expected to produce now, not just down the road. Of course, that shouldn't be a problem. Todorovic has already proved himself at the highest level.

He spent two seasons at Barcelona and enjoyed a wonderful campaign with Bilbao last season, making the All-ACB team and finishing in the top three for MVP. His size, shooting touch, pick-n-roll smarts and ability to play both power forward and center will be very welcome at Khimki. Most importantly, he'll give Khimki a reliable option in the center after years of struggling with injuries to big men Paul Davis and James Augustine.