Pavel Datsyuk's torn.

On one hand, he clearly desires a return to his native Russia to play out the twilight of his professional career close to home. But at the same time, Datsyuk's contrite, not wanting the Detroit Red Wings - the club he helped win two Stanley Cup titles - to be severely impaired by the salary penalty that comes with his exit.

"He wants to make sure the Wings have options," his agent, Dan Milstein, told Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press. "He wants to help the team any way he can with the salary cap issue."

Datsyuk's expected to return to Detroit in the coming weeks to sit down with GM Ken Holland and the Red Wings' brain trust. The dialogue isn't expected to center around his staying; more of a brainstorming session focused on how the two sides can draw up a harmonious split.

As of now, Datsyuk's departure means the Red Wings will be on the hook for his entire $7.5-million salary, because the contract was signed after he turned 35.

The only obvious way to circumvent the problem is trade Datsyuk's rights to a team with sufficient cap space.

A trade will require Datsyuk's blessing, but it appears as though he's more than willing to provide it.