In Red Wings Land

Detroit Red Wings great Pavel Datsyuk most likely staying in Russia to play | Freep

“We are meeting in the coming days to discuss options and future plans,” Milstein said. “It’s very likely Pavel will live up to his promise of playing for his hometown team in Russia.

“NHL options will also be discussed.”

Milstein said there’s a 90% probability of Datsyuk staying in Russia.

As fun as it could have been to watch Pavel Datsyuk back in a Red Wings sweater and skating alongside young skilled players like Filip Zadina, this is probably the best outcome for Detroit. Datsyuk would likely take away playing time from guys that actually need it to further their development. I’d rather see someone like Taro Hirose get an chance on the power play than rely on a soon-to-be-41-year-old.

Thanks for the memories, Pavel. Good luck in Yekaterinburg.

Around the League

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THOMAS VANEK

“I wonder if he’ll be done. He got to 1,000 games, which is a great accomplishment. He didn’t want to be traded. I don’t know. Do you think maybe depending on what happens out there, this is it?

“I’m curious to see where it all goes, but I don’t know where the fit is.”

I’m sure Ken Holland will kick the tires on bringing Vanek to the Oilers.