DETROIT -- It appears as if Jiri Hudler is free to re-join the Detroit Red Wings next season.

Reports out of Russia indicate that Hudler has been released from the second year of his two-year deal with Moscow Dynamo because the Kontinental Hockey League club is merging with another team.

Hudler recently expressed to the Red Wings his desire to return to Detroit in 2010-11, either by way of an out clause from his two-year, $10 million Russian deal or by release from that contract.

It appers he has received the latter. That means, barring a turn of events, he can join the Red Wings next season. He has a two-year deal with Detroit that averages $2.875 million a season, which he and the club essentially agreed to in arbitration last summer.

The Red Wings have not received official word of Hudler's release or what his intentions are for next season. General manager Ken Holland said recently that he anticipated Hudler will be back next season.

Hudler is not eligible to join the Red Wings in the playoffs.

Hudler, 26, had career highs in goals (23), assists (34) and points (57) in 2008-09.