In The Works...

     Really?  Now that Salavat Yulaev Ufa won't be making the playoffs,Alexander Radulov comes running back to Nashville.  Apparently the paperwork for his return has already been filed.  Drafted 15th overall in 2004, Radulov has been one of Nashville's top prospects before leaving the NHL in 2008-09 season.  Arguably the best player in the KHL, perhaps he seeks comfort in fellow Russians, the Kostitsyn brothers.  Alexander had played on a team with some teammates he was not too enthusiastic about playing with who are now gone (One was mentioned on a TSN video, J.P. Dumont).
      Radulov has his last year on his 3 year rookie level entry contract (worth $980K) to complete, and coming to Nashville in the playoffs would complete it.  The NHLPA has agreed to bypass Radulov through waivers and after this season, he will become a restricted free agent.  NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly has said there are no limitations on Radulov's return.
    Predators' GM Bill Poile expressed his belief that Alex would eventually return to the NHL.  He has a desire to be the best and wants to play against the top talent.  Is Alexander Radulov really seeking to play against the top elite or is he just chasing top dollar?  Perhaps he feels comfortable returning with familiar teammates.  Many other Russian players have fled the NHL back to the motherland that have had no Russian teammates.  Some examples are Alexander Svitov and Alexei Morozov.

 Pretty gnarly, eh?