Does anyone know how much Datsyuk signed for in Russia? Was it more than the reported 5 mill Holland and the Wings offered?
What I'm kind of wondering is whether the new cap has actually "priced teams out of the market" for certain players, Russian players especially. I have a feeling that if not now, eventually Russian clubs will be able to outbid the NHL. And, I'm sure many Russian players are tempted to play closer to home, in front of family and friends. If this becomes a trend, I'm sure there could be big problems for the National Hockey League. I realize the North American hockey market is strong, but European owners with deep pockets may start cherry-picking some of the world's top players to improve their teams. Especially with entry-level contract restrictions, I could imagine many young players (like Malkin) could even make more money abroad.
Lastly, I know Wings fans and NHL fans in general are sour about the fact that Datsyuk has decided not to play for the Wings until they sweeten the deal. Get over it. Wouldn't you rather work and live close to home than on another continent? I'm sure he's happy right where he is. He doesn't owe his life to the franchise, he's free to make his own career decisions.
What I'm kind of wondering is whether the new cap has actually "priced teams out of the market" for certain players, Russian players especially. I have a feeling that if not now, eventually Russian clubs will be able to outbid the NHL. And, I'm sure many Russian players are tempted to play closer to home, in front of family and friends. If this becomes a trend, I'm sure there could be big problems for the National Hockey League. I realize the North American hockey market is strong, but European owners with deep pockets may start cherry-picking some of the world's top players to improve their teams. Especially with entry-level contract restrictions, I could imagine many young players (like Malkin) could even make more money abroad.
Lastly, I know Wings fans and NHL fans in general are sour about the fact that Datsyuk has decided not to play for the Wings until they sweeten the deal. Get over it. Wouldn't you rather work and live close to home than on another continent? I'm sure he's happy right where he is. He doesn't owe his life to the franchise, he's free to make his own career decisions.