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Alexander Radulov Close to NHL? |
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The news is out, Alexander Radulov is on the market for a new team. But which one? Now this isn’t a small matter like whether he wants to go from a state to a new state this is a life altering decision. Radulov has been the best player in the KHL for the past 4 years and its MVP twice (Soon to be thrice). Before defecting he was a budding star in the NHL and looking like a 1st line forward easily in Nashville. Yet he went to Ufa for the money, a hefty sum to be exact and one not to be triffeled with. The fact was he was the best and most easily targeted Russian at the time for the KHL. He is from a small town in Russia and has a very large extended family there, he was on a rookie deal paying him little and he was publically humiliated for his celebration that injured Jason Arnott. A lot of variables that can lead to moving. His score first ask questions later approach has also been the subject of great dispute, did he ever really get into fights with a defensive coach like Barry Trotz? We all know he could technically come and join Nashville in their playoff run if he wanted to and committed to his contract as he is on a rookie deal. He wouldn’t need to pass waivers or anything. Ufa is already eliminated so the speculation begins.
Well talking to an associate who works for Ufa Artem I got to talk about some of the issues. Apologies for the translation it always screws up.
- Does Radulov have any issues with his coach in Ufa? The game against Yugra is heavy evidence.
Artem – He smashed his stick yes on his face, but he no try that usually. It was mistake, Radulov is an emotional player and brings his best always.
– So there was no tension?
Artem – There is always tension, these are high emotional guys and they want the best, Radulov seemed frustrated especially in the playoffs.
– Is there a chance he wants to play in the NHL?
Artem – He wants to play in the NHL from the talk. He took the plane crash very hard and that is probably why he slumped early on. I wonder if he want to play in the KHL anymore other than for Moskva.
– So he wants to play for Moskva?
Artem – Yes, they have money to pay him more than anybody. They also the best team in Russia. They would be his only choice.
– Do you think he would move back to Nashville, is there a rift?
Artem – I don’t know of rift but he liked his time there. He played hard and same as here. He say he wanted to provide for his family first.
– That’s a big statement to make Artem.
Artem – I hear this from his mouth. He said it at his signing with Ufa.
- Is there anything else you can tell me about his future? Will he come back to the NHL to play in the playoffs and maybe for good?
Artem – If he doesn’t get signed by Moskva he is gone, he will go to Nashville in my mind, he is done. He has won all in the KHL and he is too good for game.
Anybody with google will know who he is but that’s fine, I don’t know if Radulov will be back but a talk with him has me thinking he might be this time.
Follow me on Twitter @AdamFrenchReal
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