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Nail Yakupov suspended for playing in KHL without transfer card

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Edmonton Oilers right wing Nail Yakupov played on his hometown team for two games without permission from the Sarnia Sting, who own his rights. As a result, he was suspended indefinitely by the KHL.

Nail Yakupov of the Edmonton Oilers has been suspended from play in the KHL for playing without a transfer card. Yakupov played in two games for the KHL's Nizhnekamsk Neftekhimi in his hometown without approval, according to TSN.

The 18-year-old was initially assigned by the Oilers to play for the Sarnia Sting of the OHL, Edmonton's junior league club. Yakupov preferred to return home to play, but was not granted a transfer by Hockey Canada.

Yakupov will remain suspended while the case is investigated by the International Ice Hockey Federation.

The Russian has scored 80 goals and amassed 170 points in 107 games with the Sarnia Sting. Yakupov also played for his country at the 2012 World Junior Championship.

The NHL lockout has many players looking for opportunities in other leagues and countries. The KHL is considered to be the second-strongest hockey league in the world, with 20 teams in Russia and six more spread out through Eastern Europe.

                                                                                                                                                                                                               

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