It appears the Anton Burdasov experiment in Edmonton is over. A forward trying to make the team on a PTO, the Oilers have released Burdasov which will likely result in the Russian heading back to the KHL.
There were earlier reports he might get one more look in Saturday’s game against the Calgary Flames but the Oilers have decided to cut ties and ice more of a roster that has a chance to stick with regular NHL duties.
Burdasov showed well, just not well enough to win a job over a bottom-six that includes Tomas Jurco, Jujhar Khaira and others who showed themselves to be a bit more deserving. No goals and a few shots, joining the team late in camp probably cost him a chance to work his way into the line up. That his agent said Burdasov wasn’t interested in coming over from the KHL to be slotted in the AHL, didn’t help.
Understandably, Burdasov will take one of the many KHL options awaiting him thanks to the failed attempt to make the NHL.
There were also reports that Burdasov was offered a guarantee should he make the team in terms of dollars — a report denied by GM Ken Holland — but if even remotely accurate, that money could be one of the factors in deciding to cut the forward.
There were other NHL teams looking at Burdasov but it seems unlikely he’ll get a shot with another franchise if he’s not willing to spend some time in the minors.
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