Breaking News: Disputed Former New York Rangers Defenseman Exits NHL to Join Russian League

Tony DeAngelo, former New York Rangers defenseman, did not secure an NHL contract for this season and has signed a one-year deal to play for St. Petersburg in the KHL. Last season, the 28-year-old played 31 games for the Carolina Hurricanes, contributing 11 points (3 goals, 8 assists). During the Stanley Cup Playoffs, he stepped up after Brett Pesce’s injury, playing nine games with over 19 minutes of ice time.

Despite his performance, the Hurricanes chose not to re-sign DeAngelo, even after losing Pesce and Brady Skjei in free agency. DeAngelo will now reunite with former teammate Evgeny Kuznetsov in St. Petersburg, marking his first season outside North America since turning pro in 2015-16.

DeAngelo’s NHL career, particularly with the Rangers, had its ups and downs. While he had a strong 2019-20 season, tensions flared in early 2021 when he had a locker room altercation following a miscommunication with goalie Alexandar Georgiev, leading to his exit from the team.

Despite his skill as a puck-moving defenseman, DeAngelo’s career has been marred by controversies both on and off the ice.