Evgeni Nabokov's journey to the KHL this season hasn't quite worked out according to plan, and as a result, he's been searching for a way to get back into the NHL. His break may have come, and man, it really is a hell of a break.
The Central Division-leading, Stanley Cup-contending Detroit Red Wings are reportedly requesting the services of the 35-year-old goaltender. The news has led to speculation that Chris Osgood's groin injury is more serious than initially thought, especially since starter Jimmy Howard is back to health.
Why would the Wings go after a goaltender like Nabokov if they have Howard and Osgood will be back in time for the playoffs, as originally prescribed? That's just speculation, but it does make a lot of sense.
Nabokov, if signed, would have to clear waivers before joining the Red Wings. The St. Louis Blues have lost out in this same way twice already this season after signing Kyle Wellwood and Marek Svatos from Europe. Those players were claimed on waivers by San Jose and Nashville, so it's not a lock that Detroit gets their man here.
The long-time member of the San Jose Sharks played 22 games with St. Petersburg of the KHL this season, and you can probably assume that his numbers weren't all that great there, considering he's no longer on the team. He went 8-8-2 with a 3.02 goals-against average and an .880 save percentage.
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