It sounds like the Canes have lost another depth player to the Kontinental Hockey League.
Dan LaCouture, who was invited to training camp and earned a contract with his play in the preseason, is leaving Carolina's AHL affiliate in Albany to play in the KHL, according to TSN.
If the 31-year-old journeyman has indeed left for Russia, he will be the second player under contract with the team to leave for the new league. Matt Murley left to play for Amur Oct. 7.
LaCouture was in Carolina's opening night lineup and played 11 games with Carolina before being waived and assigned to the River Rats in early November. He had two goals and 10 penalty minutes for the Hurricanes this season. In 12 games with Albany, he has a goal and five assists. LaCouture played in Switzerland last season but had hopes of returning to the NHL.
Darren Dreger, who reported the story for TSN, said the Hurricanes intend on suspending LaCouture if he doesn't reconsider.