Alexei Semenov, who has 4 points and 30 PIMs for Moscow Dynamo of the KHL this year, was brought back into the fold by general manager Doug Wilson today, signing a multi-year deal just in time for the playoff push.  Semenov, who played for the Sharks previously in 2007-8 and 2008-9, totalling 10 points in 69 games and a -5, is seen as a savior for a team that has struggled recently and is suffering injuries.  “Semenov may be quite slow, and doesn’t really have the best hands,” Wilson said.  “Also, I wouldn’t say his first pass is exactly top notch, and his slap shot could use a little work, but on the plus side… um….”  Wilson then claimed he “had to go.”

With Marc-Edouard Vlasic and Joe Thornton both out currently with injuries, it’s expected Semenov will play both defense and offense at the same time.  Given his size, it’s possible Semenov might be the backup for Thomas Greiss in case he struggles in net.  When current Moscow Dynamo players and former NHL players Jiri Hudler and Karel Rachunek were contacted for their thoughts on Semenov, they said, “Oh, great guy.  Really fun to hang out with after the games.  And he does the best Carol Channing impression you’ve ever seen!”  When this reporter then pressed for details on the positives of Semenov’s contribution to the Dynamo on the ice, the two players were quickly called away by team officials.

Semenov was reached for comment, but only grunted.