Dynamo Moscow might not pursue Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin after all.
Russian newspaper Ria Novosti had reported that Andrey Safronov, general manager of the defending KHL champions, said the club would talk with the two-time Hart Trophy winner if the NHL locks out its players.
The paper now says team president Arkady Rotenberg disagrees with the decision.
“I’m actually against it. And I don’t see any prestige in it,” Rotenberg said. “I think that Ovechkin isn’t necessary.”
However, Rotenberg said Safronov and head coach Oleg Znarok could convince him to sign Ovechkin.
“If they persuade me strongly,” Rotenberg added.
The NHL’s collective bargaining agreement is set to expire on Sept. 15 and commissioner Gary Bettman said if no new CBA is reached by that date, the owners will lock out the players.
Ovechkin played with Dynamo for four seasons from 2001-02 to 2004-05.