Stephen Whyno with AP News reported today that Russian winger Danis Zaripov will be eligible to play in the NHL and is seeking a contract. While Zaripov has not been connected directly with the Tampa Bay Lightning, yet, Tampa could be considered a possible landing spot for the Russian star.
Previously, Zaripov was suspended by the KHL and IIHF and had his contract with Metallurg Magnitogorsk terminated. He was suspended for testing positive for using the drug pseudoephedrine. However, psuedoephedrine is not on the NHL/NHLPA list of banned substances. After reviewing his case, the NHL determined that he would be eligible to play in the NHL since he would not have been suspended under the NHL’s rules.