Eurolanche

KHL´s team does not want Varlamov

According to Mile High Hockey, Semyon Varlamov will probably not play in the so-called second best hockey league in the world. If he will want to play there, only one team has right to sign him – Lokomotiv Yaroslavl. It is Russian team that did not play in the KHL last season due the horrific tragedy from September 2011. Entire team excluding Finnish goalie coach has died.

The accident happened only few weeks after Varlamov´s signature of the new contract with Colorado Avalanche. Varlamov spent his two professional seasons from 2006 to 2008 in Yaroslavl. He was the part of the Washigton Capitals organization for the three following seasons. In 2011 it more looked like he could be back in Russia. Fortunately, he signed new deal with the Avs and avoid the plane crash.

In spite of Varlamov´s commitment to the Lokomotiv organization he will likely not be back after four years, if there is a lockout in the NHL. Yaroslavl hockey team is now back with the new players and is officially not interesting in to bring some NHLers. Mile Hig Hockey also states that if KHL´s teams want to have NHL players on their rosters, they will have to meet with these requirements: at least 150 games played in the NHL, or have national team experience (probably Russian – by David), or have won a Stanley Cup, or have won an individual trophy from the NHL.

Varlamot became national hero when he won the gold medal with Russian team at the World Championship. We reported about his big celebrations in Russia here. There is a option that Yaroslavl hockey team will trade his rights away to other KHL team. I personally think it will not happen. If Varlamov has really closed way to the KHL, it is hardly predict where he will play, if there is a lockout. Russians players mostly love their countries and leagues and do not want to waste a chance to be back.

It is definitely Varlamov will have to play somewhere. I hardly doubt it will be the minors in North America. Finland and Sweden are top candidates. Varlamov is the second Avalanche player after Paul Stastny whose name is connecting with European teams in a case of lockout.