Pavel Datsyuk put any rumors of a potential return to the NHL to rest Wednesday, signing a one-year deal to remain in the KHL with his hometown Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg, the league announced Wednesday.
After three years with SKA St. Petersburg, Datsyuk announced in May that he wouldn't be returning to the club, prompting some speculation that the 40-year-old was interested in a return to North America.
Before the former All-Star opted to stay in the KHL, agent Dan Milstein said the only NHL team Datsyuk would suit up for would be the Detroit Red Wings, with whom he spent the entirety of his 14-season career.
Datsyuk recorded 918 points in 953 games during his NHL tenure, winning two Stanley Cups, four Lady Byng Trophies, and three Selkes.
The Magic Man posted 12 goals and 30 assists in 54 games with St. Petersburg last year.
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