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Member of the Hockey Canada 5 signs new professional contract
Michael McLeod Joins Barys Astana Amid Legal Battle
Michael McLeod, a former first-round pick for the New Jersey Devils, is set to continue his hockey career overseas amid ongoing legal challenges. The 26-year-old center has signed with Barys Astana of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) for the 2024-25 season. This move marks a significant transition for McLeod, who spent his previous seasons in the NHL with the Devils.
Barys Astana's General Manager, Oleg Bolyakin, expressed enthusiasm about McLeod's addition to the team, stating that he expects McLeod to play a pivotal role as their first-line center. Bolyakin praised McLeod's performance in the NHL, highlighting his skill on both ends of the ice and his proficiency in faceoffs.
Note: the following quote is translated from Russian.
"We are happy to fill the deficit position with a player of such level. MacLeod has played quite successfully for the New Jersey Devils over the last four seasons, bringing benefits on both sides of the ice, and he was among the NHL leaders in faceoffs won. Anticipating questions about the proceedings with his participation in Canada, we would like to say that Michael did not admit guilt and will defend his interests in court. In the future, we would like to refrain from commenting. Now, first of all, we consider MacLeod as the first center, who is capable of becoming not only the leader of Barys, but also one of the most recognizable players in the entire KHL." Bolyakin said.
"We are happy to fill the deficit position with a player of such level. MacLeod has played quite successfully for the New Jersey Devils over the last four seasons, bringing benefits on both sides of the ice, and he was among the NHL leaders in faceoffs won. Anticipating questions about the proceedings with his participation in Canada, we would like to say that Michael did not admit guilt and will defend his interests in court. In the future, we would like to refrain from commenting. Now, first of all, we consider MacLeod as the first center, who is capable of becoming not only the leader of Barys, but also one of the most recognizable players in the entire KHL." Bolyakin said.
McLeod's move to the KHL comes amid a serious legal situation in Canada. He is one of five players implicated in a sexual assault case dating back to an incident in London, Ontario, following a Hockey Canada gala honoring the 2018 World Junior gold medalists. McLeod faces two counts of sexual assault, as confirmed by London Police in January. As of now, a date for the jury trial has not been set, but it is anticipated that an announcement could be made soon.
The legal proceedings cast a shadow over McLeod's career move, as the case has drawn considerable attention both in Canada and internationally. While Barys Astana has acknowledged the ongoing legal situation, they have refrained from further commenting, focusing instead on McLeod's potential impact on the ice.
In the NHL, McLeod was known for his speed, faceoff skills, and defensive capabilities. His move to Barys Astana offers him a fresh start and a chance to make a significant impact in the KHL. However, the outcome of his legal case remains a significant factor in his career trajectory.
Source: Barys Astana
Michael MacLeod is a newcomer to Barys
Michael MacLeod is a newcomer to Barys
| POLL | ||
AOUT 2 | 17 ANSWERS Member of the Hockey Canada 5 signs new professional contract Do you think McLeod will ever play in the NHL again? | ||
| Yes | 2 | 11.8 % |
| No | 15 | 88.2 % |
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