MOSCOW, Jul 3 The National Hockey League (NHL) and clubs are concerned that Russian players may not be back in the league by the start of next season, The Athletic reports. According to the source, many clubs offered the Russians pre-season training outside of Russia, worried that the local government might prevent hockey players from returning to their NHL teams. Also, one agent representing the interests of a number of Russian players suggested that his clients not return home. In addition, one of the problems may be related to the fact that last season some Europeans, including Russians, due to the coronavirus pandemic, received the right to play in the NHL without work visas. At the moment, the US Consulate in Moscow does not issue visas, and due to the heavy workload, it has become more difficult to obtain visas in European countries. As a result, team officials are hoping the exclusion will be extended into the 2022-23 season. Teams expect to receive more guidance from the league during the upcoming draft week in Montreal, when NHL immigration lawyers typically meet with club representatives.
