Mikael Hakkarainen, involved in the Marc-Andre Fleury trade, has European contract terminated

After deciding to leave the NHL to pursue hockey opportunities closer to home, it seems things aren't going well for Mikael Hakkarainen. The former Chicago draft pick decided to leave the NHL after being the only piece involved in the Marc-Andre Fleury trade between the Blackhawks and Vegas Golden Knights. He's now had his contract in the FInnish Elite League terminated.

"TPS Turku and striker Mikael Hakkarainen have terminated the player's contract for the current season," said a release from the team.

"The club thanks Mikael for this period in our ranks and wishes him all the best for the future."

Hakkarainen, 23, played just one game in the Finnish Elite League for Turku, as well as another four in the annual Champion's Hockey League. Whether this was a mutual decision or one-sided is not known.

Hakkarainen asked for his NHL contract to be terminated after it was determined that Vegas wasn't really interested in his services and planned to leave him with the Blackhawks' AHL team in Rockford. Rockford also didn't have a spot for him and planned to send him to the ECHL.

Source: TPS Turku

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