The career of Russian forward Nikita Filatov has taken yet another turn.
According to TSN, Filatov is being assigned to play in Russia after deciding he didn't want to return to Ottawa's American Hockey League affiliate in Binghamton. Filatov's Russian agent said in November that his client was considering a return to Russia following a demotion to the minors, but it didn't happen.
He would still remain under contract with the Senators, who traded for him in exchange for a third-round pick at the 2011 Draft with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Back in November, Ottawa general manager Bryan Murray discussed Filatov's status with the local media.
"The next step is for him to play better," Murray said. "We made a minor deal at the draft because of the number of picks that we had to take a chance (on him). We think this young man has the potential to be a NHL player. He certainly has the offensive skills to play in the NHL. We've asked him to commit himself to doing a little more work -- as far as playing defense and battling a little more often."
According to Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos, Filatov, the No. 6 pick by the Blue Jackets in 2008, will join HC CSKA Moscow. CSKA owns Filatov's KHL rights. Since the 2008-09 season, Filatov has played in 53 career NHL games and has registered 6 goals and 14 points. He played nine games with the Senators this season and has one assist.
He also spent 15 games with the Senators' American Hockey League affiliate in Binghamton, producing 7 goals and 12 points.
