Report: Datsyuk May Leave to Russia Next Season

We may be witnessing the final NHL games of Pavel Datsyuk, as he may be leaving for Russia next season.

Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reported on Hockey Night in Canada will make a decision when the season is over as to whether he will play out his contract or leave for Russia next season. According to Friedman, family is a reason for having his eyes on Russia.

To all the fans eyeing Steven Stamkos with the new found cap space, don’t get too comfy. Datsyuk’s contract will still count towards the cap whether he plays or not, because he signed the contract when he was over 35, which under CBA rules, means his cap hit sticks.

Datsyuk may be coming off his worst offensive season since his rookie season, but he will still be one of the highest scoring Red Wings of all time. His 917 points in 950 games is sixth all time for the franchise, and the most among active Red Wings. In his trophy case, he has two Stanley Cups, four consecutive Lady Byng’s, and three Selke’s.