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A day late and a ruble short

In a classic example of closing the barn door long after the horse has bolted, the Russian Hockey Federation has banned Evgeni Malkin from playing for any other team than Metallurg Magnitogorsk, which he abandoned in Finland a few weeks ago. Other than disqualifying him from playing on Russian national teams, it's unclear what possible effect this could have on his near-term future with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Based on recent history, I would think Malkin has more to worry about from unofficial Russian organizations than the RHF.  

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