NHL insider reports the Wings will lose Athanasiou

The leverage used by forward Andreas Athanasiou may backfire and lead him to Russia. The 23-year-old has received significant offers from the KHL and warned the Detroit Red Wings, but they haven't responded with a better offer of their own. 

According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, "if anyone who is threatening to go overseas actually does it, he’s his bet."

"It’s been reported Detroit is offering just under $4 million (combined) on a two-year deal, but word is the one-year offer is significantly lower," added Friedman. 

Wings fans and management remain hopeful since Athanasiou hasn't accepted an offer from the KHL, and the season is already well under way. Friedman suggests that Athanasiou may get to play for Team Canada in the upcoming Olympics , if he heads to Russia. 

Interesting!