Canadian player facing major charges from 2018 WJC scandal signs new contract
Former New Jersey Devils first-round pick Michael McLeod has found a new team for the 2024-25 season amid an ongoing legal case.
McLeod, who was selected 12th overall by the Devils in 2016, has signed with Barys Astana in the KHL.
Barys Astana General Manager Oleg Bolyakin announced the signing on Friday, expressing his satisfaction with bringing McLeod aboard for the upcoming season. Bolyakin expects McLeod to be the team's first-line center.
McLeod, along with 4 other members of the 2018 Canadian WJC team, were charged by the London Police Service, following allegations for an incident during a Hockey Canada event in summer 2018.
McLeod was charged with 2 counts of ***** ******, pending trial (which will likely happen in 2025).
Addressing McLeod's ongoing legal case in Canada, Bolyakin stated that McLeod has not admitted guilt and will defend himself in court. The team will make no further comments on the matter.
"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, 26, is one of five players allegedly involved in an incident in London, Ontario, following a Hockey Canada gala honoring the 2018 World Junior gold medalists. He is the only one facing two counts, confirmed by London Police in January. The date for the jury trial has not been set, but an announcement is expected soon.
Credit: bladeofsteelFormer Devils 1st rounder finds new team amid ongoing legal case
| POLL | ||
2 AOUT | 58 ANSWERS Canadian player facing major charges from 2018 WJC scandal signs new contract Do you think McLeod will ever play in the NHL again? | ||
| Yes | 8 | 13.8 % |
| No | 50 | 86.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
