Datsyuk Return Still Possible

The Pavel Datsyuk Saga continues on Friday, almost a week after it was supposedly wrapped up as the young center signed a deal to play the 2005-06 season in his native Russia.

On Monday, Datsyuk agent Gary Greenstin announced that Datsyuk would play for Avangard Omsk in the Russian Elite League for the upcoming season. The supposed deal did not include an out clause that would allow Datsyuk to return to the NHL if he came to an agreement with the Red Wings.

The deal, then reported at $6 million for one season, was later matched by Russian club Dynamo Moscow.

Now, according to Sovietsport.ru, neither team has registered its contract with Datsyuk. In an interview with the Russian web site, Greenstin stated, “Now on September 11th, after the clubs discuss the resulting situation, Pavel will make a final decision where he will play, in Detroit, Moscow or Omsk. Until then we won’t bother him. He’s been flying around in recent days.”

Red Wings general manager Ken Holland confirmed that he is keeping an eye on the situation and that Detroit has not ruled out bringing Datsyuk back.

“I’ll continue to stay in touch with Gary,” Holland said. “We’re still exploring all of our options.”