The Avangard is in search of a new recruit to fill McCloud's position, prevent them from being left high and dry in an unworkable situation.
In the world of ice hockey, the position of center forward is crucial for completing a team's formation. For HC Avangard, this position is under scrutiny as they navigate the future of Mike McLeod.
McLeod, a proven talent both in the club and the league, has received an offer from Avangard general director German Titov to return to Omsk. However, the Canadian center forward is currently waiting for final clarity in the NHL regarding his potential return to professional hockey.
If Avangard finds an alternative to McLeod, they have identified two potential candidates. One of these is Andrew Poturalski, a skilled forward with a strong offensive background. Poturalski, who has recently signed to play overseas for Avangard Omsk in the KHL for the 2025-26 season, demonstrated his scoring and playmaking abilities with 73 points in 59 AHL games last season.
Additionally, Avangard has signed Alexander Burmistrov, an experienced 33-year-old center forward. Burmistrov, who had limited play last season, is expected to prove his worth in the KHL once more. Both Poturalski and Burmistrov could serve as alternatives in the center forward position for Avangard.
Alexei Sogin, the general manager of Avangard, has stated that a final decision on McLeod will be made at the beginning of the following week. In the meantime, the Omsk club is actively seeking a potential replacement for McLeod, as they are not willing to wait indefinitely for his final decision.
Titov has stated that McLeod knows the club's offer and they are willing to sort things out if something comes up. The priority for Avangard remains a center forward, as they aim to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.
As the situation unfolds, it will be interesting to see whether McLeod will return to Omsk or if Avangard will move forward with one of their potential alternatives. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
Avangard is considering Poturalski and Burmistrov as potential alternatives to Mike McLeod, the center forward who is currently waiting for final clarity in the NHL regarding his potential return. These two candidates could serve as alternatives in the crucial center forward position for Avangard as they aim to strengthen their roster for the upcoming hockey season.
