Alexander Radulov

The Red Wings are exploring the possibility of signing Alexander Radulov, who excelled at the Olympics for Russia.

(AP file photo)

DETROIT - Russian star Alexander Radulov wants to return to the NHL and the Detroit Red Wings are on the short list of teams he is interested in joining.

The Red Wings have spoken to his agent and are doing their due diligence, trying to determine whether to make the free-agent forward a contract offer, a source told M-Live.

The Red Wings have no doubts about Radulov's ability. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound winger turns 30 on July 5 and is coming off a strong season in the Kontinental Hockey League with CSKA Moscow (23 goals, 65 points in 53 games).

But there are concerns about his off-ice behavior and whether he would have a negative influence in the dressing room, especially with younger players. They are speaking with some of Radulov's former teammates and people who know him.

Money and term also are issues. Radulov, who was making big money in the KHL, likely is seeking the security of a long-term contract. The Red Wings might only be interested in a short-term deal.

Radulov played two seasons for the Nashville Predators, who selected him with the 15th overall pick in 2004, before bolting for Russia. After four seasons with Ufa Salavat Yulayev he returned to Nashville near the end of the 2011-12 season and the playoffs.

Radulov's second stint with the Predators ended shortly he and teammate Andrei Kostitsyn were suspended for breaking curfew during the second-round series against the Phoenix Coyotes.

He has since reportedly matured and settled down and has a 5-month-old son.

Radulov has 47 goals and 102 points in 154 career NHL games, in addition to six goals and 14 points in 18 playoff games. He has played the past four seasons for CKSA Moscow, whose general manager is former Red Wing Sergei Fedorov.

Red Wings officials couldn't be reached for comment.

The Red Wings need to bolster their offense, especially with the expected departure of Pavel Datsyuk to Russia. They will try to move Datsyuk's $7.5 million cap hit to a team that needs to reach the cap floor.

Colorado reportedly is on Radulov's list as well. He played for Avalanche coach Patrick Roy with the Quebec Ramparts of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.

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