Homeward bound
Tverdovsky leaves NHL to play in native Russia
Posted: Saturday August 30, 2003 12:29PM; Updated: Saturday August 30, 2003 12:29PM
MOSCOW (AP) -- Defenseman Oleg Tverdovsky is returning to Russia after playing last season for the Stanley Cup champion New Jersey Devils.
He signed a two-year contract with Avangard of the Super League on Aug. 23, the Russian club said on its Web site. The Devils could not confirm the move Saturday because Tverdovsky became an unrestricted free agent in June.
Tverdovsky, 27, was traded to the Devils last season. He had an erratic season that was limited by a head injury. He played 50 games, finishing with five goals and eight assists.
He began his pro career with Russia's Soviet Wings. He played for the Anaheim Mighty Ducks from 1994-96, then was dealt to Winnipeg for Teemu Selanne and Marc Chouinard in 1996 before being traded back to the Ducks in 1999.
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