So I want him back.
Give him a 5 yr $2.5m 2 way contract. $.8M for the minors.
That way the Canucks can bury his contract if they don't think he is worth the money. Or he can run back to Russia. Or if he isn't up to snuff, send to the minors where he doesn't cost cap room, but makes more than he would in Russia. And we don't have to bid for him if he he produces. and at 29 if he is still here, he can cash in for whatever he can get from whoever he wants.
And if he does prove to be worth the money, we have him for EP and Hughes best years. And if not, they waive him and see if anyone wants him. I don't see how we can lose. If all of our FA signings are worth ... on average for sub par D men, and 4th line forwards, say $3M a year, this is one hell of a deal.