McLeod remains in Denmark for 2011-12 season

Former Brahmas defenseman signs with Esbjerg

Former Texas Brahmas defenseman Kevin McLeod has signed a contract for the 2011-12 season with Esbjerg, in the top Danish ice hockey league AL-Bank Ligaen, the team announced today. McLeod joins Esbjerg after completing a six-game tryout agreement with the Vienna Capitals (Austria).

“We will not risk ending up in the same situation as last year when we at one time had only four backs (defensemen),” Esbjerg head coach Tomas Jonsson said. “Kevin McLeod, with his qualities will be a clear gain, both offensively and defensively. He has good size, he's a good skater and he is strong.”

A native of Calgary, Alberta, McLeod appeared in 35 games last season with Hvidovre, where he tallied 23 points (7 G, 16 A) and 131 penalty minutes. He added two assists in four playoff games. McLeod was reportedly instrumental in attracting former Brahmas goalie Brett Jaeger to Hvidovre for this season. Now, McLeod will play against Jaeger for the first time in his career.

Prior to crossing the pond, McLeod spent three seasons with the Brahmas, appearing in 168 regular-season games, amassing 114 points (46 G, 68 A). In 2008-09, McLeod enjoyed his finest professional season as he tied for first in the CHL among defenseman in goals scored with 20. His offensively productive year ranked him fourth on the Brahmas roster in the goals, assists and points categories with 50 points (20 G, 30 A) and 89 PIM.

In 2009-10, McLeod was called up to the American Hockey League's Springfield Falcons where he played five games.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith