Anton Khudobin: SKA are looking for a No. 1 to pull them into Gagarin Cup finals

Boston Bruins goaltender Anton Khudobin has spoken about his available career options, which include a return to Russia.

«Today I enter the free agents market and from now on I can sign a contract with any team in the world. My chances of remaining in the NHL are quite good and I’d like to stay here. However, I do not burn the bridges to Russia behind my back. If a good offer comes from the KHL, I may return.

«If, for example, Winnipeg sign me and assure me: «You will play», – of course, I will stay. At the same time, I have nothing against playing in Russia. I wouldn’t like to compare the leagues – which is better and which is worse. I will repeat: it will all depend on particular proposals – what I’m offered in the NHL and what I’m offered in the KHL. When I have complete information, I will put the options on scales, and we’ll make a decision together with my agent.»

«SKA are now actively looking for a goaltending teammate for Jakub Stepanek. On the Internet you have been already linked with the St. Petersburg club – as well as Semyon Varlamov, though. Have you heard anything about it?»

«Yes, I have received an offer from SKA. But it’s not because they are looking for a partner for Jakub. SKA want to find a No. 1 who can pull the team into the Gagarin Cup. They have always been aiming high. If it comes to signing of a contract, these matters – as well as my position in the team – will be the key ones.»

«How would you rate your chances of spending the next season in SKA jersey?»

«The chances to appear in any Russian club, including SKA, do exist. I have been preparing for the season in St. Petersburg with SKA many times. I know the club’s management, knew most of the coaching staff who have been working last year – Cherkas, Kasparaitis, Sikora, Zanatta. I never met their current head coach Milos Riha – but, maybe, we will have this opportunity later. I will repeat: I do not rule out the possibility to spend the 2011-12 season at SKA,» said Khudobin to Sports Daily.