Alexander Radulov won’t return to NHL, signs KHL deal

Elliotte Friedman and John Shannon discuss the lack of trades at the 2016 NHL Draft and what the reason could be.

It looks like a return to the NHL isn’t happening for Alexander Radulov, after all.

A few months after confirming his desire to return for the 2016-17 season, the Russian forward was not able to get a deal done with an NHL club according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, and has signed a KHL deal instead.

It was believed that the Colorado Avalanche were the top contenders to sign Radulov, 29, as he has QMJHL ties with head coach Patrick Roy.

At that time, Friedman had also reported that Radulov was interested in the Detroit Red Wings, Washington Capitals or Florida Panthers.

Radulov last played in the NHL in 2011-12, when he left the Nashville Predators for Russia under unpleasant circumstances after being suspended for violating curfew during that year’s playoffs.

Radulov, known for his sharp shot and pure goal-scoring abilities, played the last four KHL seasons at a point-per-game rate, registering 23 goals and 65 points in 53 games this season to help CSKA Moscow to the Gagarin Cup Final.

He had 47 goals and 102 points in 154 career NHL regular season games with Nashville.

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