Disgraced former New Jersey Devils forward Michael McLeod signs in the KHL

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Tom Banks
August 2, 2024 (2:37 PM)

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Michael McLeod is one of five players involved in the 2018 Team Canada World Juniors scandal, but now the forward has officially signed on to play in the KHL.

The past few years, the hockey world has been rocked by the scandal that involved five players from the 2018 Team Canada World Juniors squad, and now things just keep getting worse. Although all five men face trial, with their hockey careers in the NHL likely over unless they are found not guilty, one of those has now officially signed a deal to continue his career overseas.

Michael McLeod has signed a one-year contract with Barys Astana (KHL).

McLeod, along with 4 other members of the 2018 Canadian WJC team, were charged by the London Police Service, following allegations during a Hockey Canada event in summer 2018.

McLeod was charged with 2 counts, pending trial (which will likely happen in 2025).

The team seemingly don't see his conduct off the ice and pending investigation as an issue however, with the General Manager of Barys Aslana having this to say about his newest recruit;

«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.»

At this point, McLeod and the others are innocent until proven guilty, but after the events that have transpired, it's shocking to see this happen, so now we will wait until 2025 to officially get an answer on the five players.

Source: New Jersey Hockey Now
Report: Former Devils Forward Michael McLeod Signs in KHL