Edmonton Oilers 2012 top draft pick Nail Yakupov cleared to play in KHL -NHL Update
The Edmonton Oilers’ 2012 National Hockey League (NHL) top Entry Draft pick, Nail Yakupov, came under fire recently as he played in the Russian, Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), despite being banned to do so due to his entry-level contractual obligations
in North America.
Luckily for the Russian sensation, the KHL has been cleared as the league announced that the ban that had restricted his playing in the country has now been lifted, allowing him to pursue playing abroad while the lockout lasts.
Since the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) had locked the youngster to their, Sarnia Sting, team, the claim of him not being able to play anywhere else arose, but the league came out to lift it by terming their move to be in accordance with the policy of not
hindering any youngster from playing anywhere.
“We wouldn't do anything to hinder any kid," said Sarnia head coach and GM Jacques Beaulieu. "We're not in the business of standing in the way of any player's development. We would never do that."
Following the statement by the Sarnia Sting head coach, Canadian and Russian hockey authorities came out to let it be known that Yakupov was free to play where he wanted.
“The OHL has determined that Yakupov had no independent legal advice when, at the age of 17 years old, he signed his contract with Sarnia. His release goes into effect immediately.”
The 18-year-old was the Edmonton Oilers third straight first pick in three years, with Taylor Hall and Ryan Nugent Hopkins being the first and second in 2010 and 2011 respectively. Oilers are one of many teams that really have struggled these past few seasons
and have been doing everything possible in terms of performance to turn themselves around and become a leading club in the league.
There is obviously no lack of strength on the club and talent, but rather, just the lacking of experience that has really been affecting them in the rankings. With someone like Nail Yakupov, the Oilers are definitely looking forward to a much better season
with a highly regarded youngster on the club.
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