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Report: Buffalo’s Ehrhoff to play in Germany

pinguine

One of the NHL’s largest salaries for 2012-13 is headed overseas.

Buffalo defenseman Christian Ehrhoff -- scheduled to make $8 million this season -- is set to join German league outfit Krefeld Pinguine, according to agent Rick Curran.

Ehrhoff, 30, began his professional hockey career with Krefeld in 1999-2000 and played with the club until joining the San Jose Sharks in 2003-04.

He didn’t return to Germany during the 2004-05 lockout -- opting to play with AHL Cleveland -- but Curran said playing for Krefeld was “an easy option” for Ehrhoff this time ‘round.

Paul Hamilton of WGR 550 Buffalo reports the only issue with Ehrhoff joining Krefeld could be insurance.

Ehrhoff is just one year into the 10-year, $40 million deal signed with the Sabres last July, making him one of the team’s most expensive players and one of the league’s highest-paid blueliners.

So yeah, insurance could be an issue. As noted by ESPN’s Pierre LeBrun, players injured while playing in other leagues during the lockout are subjected to suspension -- without pay -- by their NHL clubs.