Rumor: Artem Anisimov Finished in Ottawa

The Ottawa Senators will once again have high turnover on their roster next season and one name you can expect not to see is forward Artem Anisimov. Reports have surfaced the player is likely headed to Russia to continue his hockey career.

As @hockey_se reports, F Artem Anisimov will sign with @hclokomotiv in off-season. His contract with @Senators #NHL runs out after 2020-21. #KHL #HockeyTwitter #Sens

— KHL DIARIES (@vorkywh24) April 23, 2021

The 32-year-old is in the final year of his current contract that sees him make $4.55 million on the cap. So far this season in 18 appearances Anisimov has scored two goals and recorded six assists. Last season in 49 games he scored 20 points as he's just never really found his mark with the Sens.

And while reports have surfaced regarding his playing future in Russia, his agent was quick to deny the reports, meanwhile this could easily be a leverage tactic for negotiations with clubs from either league. Regardless, it's very likely the Senators are moving on and Anisimov will be wearing a new jersey next season.

Some reports today about OTT C Artem Anisimov going to KHL after this season...agent Todd Diamond denies: “His only focus is to continue his career in the NHL.”

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) April 23, 2021

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