Predators: Radulov could return

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NASHVILLE, March 19 (UPI) -- Former Nashville Predators forward Alexander Radulov could return to the team from Russia "in the near future," General Manager David Poile said.

After reports from Moscow indicated the high-scoring Radulov was set to return to Nashville -- four years after breaking his contract with the team and returning to his native Russia -- Poile issued a statement expressing optimism for his return.

"We have been in contact with Jay Grossman, Alexander's agent, throughout this process of trying to return Alexander to the Predators and the NHL," Poile said. "Though the complicated process has yet to be concluded, every indication is that Alexander will be returning to Nashville in the near future. We do not anticipate having any further update on this process until tomorrow, at the earliest."

Radulov scored 44 goals and added 51 assists in 145 games for the Preds from 2006-08.

He has played for Salavat Yulaev Ufa of the Kontinental Hockey League since returning to Russia, where he has racked up 25 goals in 50 games this season.

The Predators hold the fourth playoff seed in the NHL's Western Conference.