Andrei Kostitsyn (File)
When the Predators brought Andrei Kostitsyn to Nashville at the trading deadline, they did so with some trepidation.
There were concerns about Kostitsyn’s character during his time in Montreal and worries about his potential effect on his younger brother Sergei — a top line player with the Predators.
Initially, the move seemed like a coup. Kostitsyn notched six points in his first five games, including two scores against the Detroit Red Wings on March 10. He notched the shootout winner against Phoenix in a March 12 tilt.
Overall, he had 12 points in 19 games with Nashville — a good total — and showed a strong forechecking ability with a powerful wrist shot. But the questions about Kostitsyn returned during the playoffs. He and Alexander Radulov broke curfew the night before Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinal against Phoenix. This led to a suspension for Game 3.
Also, after his arrival in Nashville, Sergei’s numbers dropped considerably. Little brother had just seven points in 18 regular season games after the trade and three points in 10 playoff games. Coincidence? Perhaps, but probably not.
Andrei is slated to become an unrestricted free agent July 1 if he and the Predators can’t come to terms on a new deal before that time. The Predators have now officially said he won’t be back. He can add some scoring punch to another team if he’s motivated.
