According to Russian Press, Malakhov was forced/pressured into retirement by Lamorello (sp?). Malahkov gave an interview which can be found here: http://www.sport-express.ru/art.shtml?114458, I will translate for you:
Vladimir, what happened?
- I don´t want a public discussion of what happened. Lets talk about the facts. As of yet, there is only one fact: starting Monday, I am a pensioner.
Did something or someone force you to retire?
-At the current stage, I dont want to go into specifics. On Saturday, after the game in Carolina, I did indeed talk to the General Manager of the team Lou Lamorello. You know the result.
Is any pressure exerted on you?
I cannot comment yet.
How can one explain the statement of your agent, which refuted that you retired?
It came at the moment when the situation was "shaken down"... (no idea what he means)
Is the financial aspect settled?
I no longer recieve a salary in New Jersey.
Can you return to proffessional hockey?
In the NHL - no.
What about in Russia?
I need to think about it.
If the need arises, SE, as a Russian newspaper, is ready to support you.
Thank you for the attention to my personna, and for the support.
