October 12, 2005
Semin could still play with Caps TheFourthPeriod.com
Alexander Semin, who is currently playing with Lada Togliatti of the Russian Super League, may return to the Capitals after all.
Lada Togliatti has reportedly run into financial trouble and is expected to cut up to 50% of its payroll in the coming weeks, reports website RussianProspects.com.
The team has already fired new general manager Sergei Mikhalev and some of its coaches.
"It is likely that the club's budget will be severely cut and this will ... be reflected on the club's roster," Mikhalev told RussianProspects.com.
Semin, who was drafted 13th overall by the Caps in 2002, is the higher paid player on the team, making around $2 million tax free with a car and condo, according to the Washington Times.
Semin was suspended by the Caps a year ago after failing to report to Portland of the AHL after claiming he had to fulfill military duties in Russia.
The Times, meanwhile, is reporting that a Capitals official said the team was sick of broken promises and wasn't sure it wanted him back under any circumstances.
