"The Caps also might want to think about getting a good Russian veteran of solid character who can guide Ovechkin and Alexander Semin through their formative years in the league. A player like Igor Larionov comes to mind, but he retired and returned to Russia."

So writes Dave Fay this morning . . . it's sort of the "Crash Davis" approach to mentoring (for fans of "Bull Durham").  I think there is a kernel of sense in it, but as that last sentence suggests, finding that "good Russian veteran of solid character" is going to be a chore.  There don't seem to be many Group III's of that sort . . . or Group II's for that matter.  Any ideas who might fill this particular help wanted ad?

___________
Play hard, shake hands, drink beer.

"LA needs two hockey teams like Switzerland needs two navies" -- Norman Chad (from "My 10-Point Plan to Save Gary Bettman from Himself")

While not Russian, and not a chisled vet, wouldn't Zubrus and the a lesser extent, Bondra fill that role?

On the matter of Bondra, it isn't clear if he'll have his option picked up by Ottawa.  Last evening on Fox-5 Sports Extra, Ted Leonsis was asked if he would be bringing Bondra back -- twice.  He demurred, saying that he couldn't say anything, or he'd be fined (tampering).  I didn't interpret his non-comment one way or another.

___________
Play hard, shake hands, drink beer.

"LA needs two hockey teams like Switzerland needs two navies" -- Norman Chad (from "My 10-Point Plan to Save Gary Bettman from Himself")

Untill Ottawa formally does not excercise the option, it would be considered tampering. I would think it would be a no-brainer to resign Peter at a reasonable 2-2.5mm/year.

Maybe a better way to foster Russians would be to have a Russian coach around. The name Fetisov is more than interesting, but I don't think he would come for less than a head coaching gig (which honestly would not bother me - but I don't think it will happen).

Kozlov from atlanta perhaps? solid player but don't know his contract status.

"Maybe a better way to foster Russians would be to have a Russian coach around."

That might not be the best thing for Hanlon, though, if the styles of play desired conflict. Maybe as a new head coach- I could see that in a couple of years. Is Tarasov(sp?) available?