Former NHL first-rounder Reid Boucher, who was blacklisted by the NHL due to sexual assault charges, has found a new home in Russia's KHL. He's split the last two seasons with Omsk Avangard & Lokomotiv, where he'e admittedly performed quite well; he's been a top scorer in the KHL in both seasons played.
However, a consistent basis of operations eludes Boucher. His past is not an easy one to accept by western standards, which is why he no longer plays in North America. However, Russia's standards on the matter are historically much lower; they seem to be more tolerant of criminal behavior in the name of sport (and money).
Boucher was recently dismissed from Lokomotiv, citing his troubled past. He pled guilty to third-degree criminal sexual conduct against a minor in December 2021.
His dismissal from Lokomotiv was shocking to say the least; Lokomotiv was Boucher's second team in as many seasons. One has to wonder if Boucher might be problematic, plain & simple (Duh).
Lokomotiv President Yuri Yakovlev had this to say regarding Boucher's dismissal:
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With his dismissal, there are reports that Salavat Ufa is signing the forward, along with former linemate Corban Knight. However, it appears as if the negotiations are paused due to Boucher's baggage:
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This story is developing, so once there is a further update we will provide it.
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