Watch CBS News

Datsyuk Ends Speculation Of Return To Red Wings, Signs With Avtomoblist Yekaterinburg

MOSCOW (AP) — Pavel Datysuk has signed for his hometown Russian club in the Kontinental Hockey League, ending speculation of a possible return to the NHL.

 

 

Detroit Red Wings v Chicago Blackhawks - Game Seven
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 29: Patrick Kane #88 of the Chicago Blackhawks tries to move between Carlo Colaiacovo #28 and Pavel Datysuk #13 of the Detroit Red Wings in Game Seven of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2013 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at the United Center on May 29, 2013 in Chicago, Illinois. The Blackhawks defeated the Red Wings 2-1 in overtime. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

 

 

The 40-year-old center has signed a one-year deal with Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg, the successor to the team where he began his pro career in the 1996-97 season.

He posted a picture on social media of himself in the Avtomobilist uniform and the caption "beloved Yekaterinburg."

 

 

 

 

Datysuk left the NHL in 2016 to return to Russia with SKA St. Petersburg after 953 games for the Detroit Red Wings. He won an Olympic gold medal last year with the Olympic Athletes from Russia after the NHL did not allow its players to take part.

He left SKA last month after three KHL seasons.

 

© 2019 Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.