Russian forward Danis Zaripov has been cleared to pursue an NHL contract today. He is looking to make the move after the IIHF and the KHL banned him for alleged doping.
Danis Zaripov Cleared to Pursue NHL Contract
Per the Associate Press: “The NHL said in a statement that Zaripov was cleared in part because pseudoephedrine is not on its prohibited substances list and that he was not allowed to testify at his hearing. The league said it approved Zaripov’s status after he testified last week and it reviewed evidence related to the suspension.”
Zaripov also commented on being cleared by the NHL, “I look forward to continuing my professional hockey playing career in North America, and today I am very grateful to the senior management of the NHL for its decision, which provides me the opportunity to do so,” Zaripov said in a statement.
“Even though I now have a chance to play in the best league in the world, I plan to continue my appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (to) prove my right case and clear my name.”
Zaripov’s agent Dan Milstein stated that they are ready and open to negotiations now that he has been cleared by the NHL. He also stated that Zaripov wants to go to a winner, and to compete immediately.
For a 36-year-old, winning is likely the highest priority for his first venture into the NHL. Of the teams interested, there were reports yesterday that both the New York Rangers and the Vegas Golden Knights were interested. Whether he is willing to entertain an offer from the Golden Knights is up for debate with his want to compete and win.
Zaripov is coming off the back of a 45-point in the KHL with now former club Magnitogorsk Metallurg. He had 16 goals and 29 assists in 56 games last season.
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