The latest wave of North American talent is charting a course across the Atlantic, swapping NHL contracts for European leagues.
Finland welcomes Leschyshyn
Jake Leschyshyn, a 27‑year‑old forward with more than 400 games of North American professional experience, has agreed to a one‑year deal with HIFK Helsinki in Finland’s Liiga. He brings a résumé that includes stints with the Buffalo Sabres organization, the Rochester Americans, and a recent NHL appearance with the New York Rangers during the 2023‑24 season. Drafted 62nd overall by the Vegas Golden Knights in 2017, Leschyshyn’s journey reflects the growing appeal of Liiga as a developmental destination.
Sheffield’s fresh infusion
Tim Gettinger, formerly a mainstay in the New York Rangers system and a two‑year Grand Rapids Griffins veteran, has signed with England’s Sheffield Steelers of the EIHL. After spending the 2024‑25 season with Germany’s Schwenninger Wild Wings, where he posted seven points in 30 games, Gettinger’s move underscores the EIHL’s strategy of recruiting seasoned North American forwards.
KHL departure for Andreoff
Veteran forward Andy Andreoff, 35, saw his contract with Sibir Novosibirsk of the KHL terminated by mutual agreement. Andreoff’s three‑year tenure in Siberia included a strong debut season in which he netted 27 goals, following earlier spells with the New York Islanders organization and a brief stint with Switzerland’s ZSC Lions. His career also features 188 NHL games and a stint in Switzerland’s top league.
Broader implications
The clustering of former NHL players in Finland, England and Russia highlights a shifting talent pipeline, where leagues in Europe offer competitive contracts and playing time that can exceed what many find in the AHL or on the margins of the NHL. For the players involved, the transitions represent both new challenges and opportunities to extend their professional careers in diverse hockey cultures.