Michael McLeod joins Barys Astana amid legal troubles

PUBLICATION

Sam Jones
August 2, 2024 (4:08 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

Michael McLeod, once a prominent figure with the New Jersey Devils and now embroiled in controversy due to his involvement in an alleged assault case with Hockey Canada, has signed a one-year contract with Barys Astana in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).

The former NHL center found himself without a qualifying offer from the Devils after the allegations surfaced, pertaining to an incident from June 2018. This lack of an offer effectively positioned him as a free agent, paving the way for his recent signing with the Kazakhstan-based team.

McLeod is among five Hockey Canada players implicated in the ongoing legal proceedings, which have caused significant disruption within the ranks of those involved, including McLeod himself, who took an extended leave from the Devils due to the situation.

Barys Astana has expressed confidence in McLeod's abilities, emphasizing his past achievements and potential future contributions to the team. The organization issued a statement addressing the controversy and their decision to sign McLeod:

"We are happy to fill the deficit position with a player of such level. [McLeod] 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 [McLeod] 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."

McLeod is the second player to officially sign with an overseas team following the surrender to police related to this case, marking a significant shift in his professional trajectory amidst legal challenges. As he transitions into this new chapter with Barys Astana, the hockey community watches closely, anticipating how his on-ice performance will unfold in the KHL.

Source: NJHOCKEYNOW.com
Report: Former Devils Forward Michael McLeod Signs in KHL