Seven former NHLers have their contracts abruptly terminated

According to a report from AHL hockey insider Tony Androckitis, KHL club Barys Astana has cut ties with several of their high-profile players including several former NHLers.

The most notable name on the list is former New Jersey Devils forward and accused 2018 World Juniors perpetrator Michael McLeod. The likes of Wade Allison, Nathan Beaulieu, Will Butcher, Chase De Leo, Alex Grant and CJ Smith have also all reportedly been sent packing.

From Androckitis:

Stay tuned for official confirmation.

Barys, based in Astana, Kazakhstan, is dead last in the KHL with just three wins in the first 16 games to start the season. McLeod is the team's leading scorer with just three goals and six points in 15 games.