Former Senators goaltender Emery headed to Russia

Ray Emery’s hopes of continuing his career in the National Hockey League are on hold.

TSN is reporting the former Ottawa Senators goaltender has agreed to a one-year deal with Atlant Mytishchi of the new Russian Continental Hockey League.
The deal is reportedly worth at least $2 million plus bonuses.

"Unfortunately, it's only been a short time since the buyout and there isn't anybody willing to give (Emery) a second chance at this time," said Emery's agent J.P. Barry to the Sun Media. "I think if people knew the things that he's done over the last little while to turn the corner, there might be more interest out there.

According to Barry, Emery had hoped to play in the NHL next season, but received just three calls. I’m guessing the Los Angeles Kings had to be one.

Emery hopes this is a stopgap in his NHL career. Last season, he lost his starting job to Martin Gerber, and a series of off-ice antics prompted the Senators to buy out Emery’s contract.

Less than a year ago and coming off a 33-win season, Emery signed a three-year, $9.5 million contract with Ottawa after helping lead it to the Stanley Cup finals. The Senators were beaten in five games by the Anaheim Ducks.

“He's a talented goalie who wants to play," Barry said of Emery, who finished 2007-08 with a 12-13-4 record.