Chelyabinsk "Traktor" secures hockey player Joshua Livo for one season
Canadian Forward Josh Leivo Joins HC "Traktor" After Controversial Departure from Salavat Yulaev
Josh Leivo, the Canadian forward who broke the KHL's sniper record last season, is set to join HC "Traktor" after a controversial departure from Ufa's Salavat Yulaev. The official announcement of Leivo's signing is expected to appear on HC "Traktor's" website today, August 15.
Leivo's tenure at Salavat Yulaev came to an end amid a contract dispute during the 2024/2025 season. As the team's leading scorer and league MVP with 49 goals, Leivo requested a release. The club attempted to terminate his contract, but ultimately, it was mutually agreed upon and terminated[1][2][3].
Following his departure, Leivo transferred to Chelyabinsk's Traktor club in the KHL. The reasons for his departure appear linked to the mutual agreement to end his contract and his own request for release, likely motivated by the contract dispute and desire for a change of team environment despite his strong individual performance[2][3].
American Mike Vecchione has been sent to HC "Traktor" from "Barys" in exchange for financial compensation, freeing up a foreign player spot for Leivo. However, Leivo's joining of HC "Traktor" is subject to him resolving his work visa issue.
According to TASS, Leivo has already signed a one-year contract with HC "Traktor" and is set to earn around 700 million rubles annually. In his previous stint with Salavat Yulaev, Leivo played 122 games, scoring 70 goals and making 72 assists[1].
The timeline of events is as follows:
- 2024/2025 season: Leivo excels at Salavat Yulaev as MVP and top scorer.
- August 2025: Leivo requests release amid contract dispute.
- Mid August 2025: Salavat Yulaev terminates the contract by mutual agreement.
- Subsequently, Leivo signs with Traktor Chelyabinsk[1][2][3].
Despite the controversy surrounding his departure, Leivo's talent and potential are undeniable. As the league's top scorer in the 2024/25 season with 80 points, Leivo is expected to bring a strong offensive presence to HC "Traktor". The official presentation by HC "Traktor" is yet to be made.
[1] [Link to source 1] [2] [Link to source 2] [3] [Link to source 3]
I'm not sure why there was a dispute over Josh Leivo's contract, but it seems that his love for hockey might have led him to request a release from Salavat Yulaev. After all, he is an exceptional sportsman, as evident from his records in the KHL, and it's understandable that he'd seek a change if he felt stifled or unappreciated in his previous environment.
