ESPN reported Wednesday that the NHL does not anticipate any Russian players having problems getting visas this season. Bill Daly, deputy commissioner of the NHL, told ESPN.
Daly stated that “we’re expecting them all be good — and North America” during the European media tour of the league in Paris. “This whole situation is complicated, but it’s not within our control. As with the pandemic and other issues, we turned to the governing agencies for help in making those decisions. And we followed the rules.”
ESPN reported that agents representing Russian players said the visa application process has been slower and more complex than in previous years. Many Russian-born players who were born in Russia have traveled to other countries to obtain their visas since the U.S. consulate has stopped providing visa services.
The fate of Russian players has not been known since February when Russia invaded Ukraine. In the NHL last season, only 60 Russian-born players were involved in a game. Many in the scouting world predicted that Russians would not be allowed to draft the first round, due to uncertainty and possible travel restrictions. But, in July, three Russian players were selected: Pavel Mintyukov (Anaheim Ducks, No. 10), Ivan Miroshnichenko (Washington Capitals, No. 20) and Danila Jurov (Minnesota Wild, No. 24).
The NHL immediately suspended all business relations and diplomatic efforts with Russia following the invasion.
A memorandum between the NHL and KHL is still in place. It requires that both leagues respect each other’s player contracts.
Daly was asked if there were concerns about the memorandum being broken and KHL teams poaching NHL players, and he replied: “That’s an excellent question.”
Daly stated, “I want to see the next season.” “I don’t know which way to go yet.”
The league announced before the Stanley Cup Final that the cup would not be going to Russia this summer. That decision affected Colorado Avalanche Forward Valeri NichushkinHe was unable to celebrate his traditional day in celebration with the cup in his country of origin.
Daly stated that the league’s main concern since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine was the safety and security of its members.
Daly stated, “We were concerned about how the reactions in North America might turn out.” “We have been able maintain safety and security by increasing security around Russian players.” Most importantly, they feel safe. This was the most important thing.