Dadonov Heads Back to Russia

[La Vieielle Garde]

This from Twitter:

By Michael Smith

Evgenii Dadonov is heading back to Russia, according to a Wednesday report from Yahoo! Sports. Michael Smith Follow on Twitter

Dmitry Chesnokov reported that the 23-year-old winger had signed with Donbass of the Kontinental Hockey League. Though the Carolina Hurricanes couldn’t confirm the report, Donbass’ team website has appeared to do so today.

Dadonov, acquired by the Hurricanes in a mid-January AHL trade with Florida, played in the KHL as recently as the 2008-09 season with Traktor. Rumors of him going back to his native country had spawned months ago, so this move was one the Canes’ front office expected.

“Even in the scenario where he goes to Russia next year, organizationally, we still think we’ve taken a step forward,” said Jason Karmanos, executive vice president and assistant general manager, in January. “It’s worth the chance to see what there is with this player and his potential.”

Dadonov was one of seven restricted free agent the Hurricanes qualified. The team will retain his rights while he is overseas, along with prospects Oskar Osala and Mike Murphy, who are also playing in Russia.

Dadonov compiled 19 points (3g, 16a) in 35 games with Charlotte since joining the Carolina organization. In 55 career NHL games with the Panthers, Dadonov scored 10 goals and recorded 10 assists (20 points).

[hf101]

This seems almost similar to what Radulov did to the Predators. What stinks really is then Dadonov wastes one of the 50 Hurricane contracts.

I wonder if the new CBA will make any changes with respect to players leaving to play in the KHL.

[La Vieielle Garde]

That would be an excellent idea! I hope they do put that in. I'm sure the players union will be opposed for some reason.

Same thing is happening in Europe. Big soccer stars are leaving to play for teams in Russia and now China that are throwing huge sums of money at them.