Josh Livov departs from Salavat Yulaev after contract termination
In the world of ice hockey, the departure of a key player can significantly impact a team's strategy, and this year, the departure of Josh Leivo from Salavat Yulaev is no exception. As the 2025 KHL season approaches, starting on September 5, the Ufa-based club finds itself in search of a replacement for the Canadian forward.
Leivo, who joined Salavat Yulaev ahead of the 2023-24 season, made a splash in his first year, scoring 15 goals in 40 games. However, it was his record-breaking 2024-25 season that truly solidified his status as a top scorer in the KHL.
Last season, Leivo broke Sergei Mozyakin's long-held 48-goal record, becoming the league's top sniper. He led the league in scoring, making him the top offensive player in the KHL during his tenure. His strong playoff performance also contributed to the team's success.
Prior to joining the KHL, Leivo was a noted scorer in the AHL and had some NHL experience across multiple teams. His career includes stints with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Carolina Hurricanes, and St. Louis Blues.
In his two seasons with Salavat Yulaev, Leivo accumulated 118 points in 102 games, showing strong consistency and a positive plus-minus of +37, underlining his all-around contribution on the ice.
At 32 years old, Leivo has established himself as a top scorer and influential player for Salavat Yulaev and the league as a whole. Despite signing a two-year extension in February 2024, Salavat Yulaev parted ways with Leivo after the record-breaking 2024-25 season, making him a free agent as of August 2025.
As the new KHL season approaches, Salavat Yulaev will need to find a suitable replacement for Leivo. The prospects for the Gagarin Cup remain to be seen, but one thing is certain: Leivo's impact on the team during his time with Salavat Yulaev will not be easily forgotten.
[1] [Source 1] [2] [Source 2]
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