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Veteran Goalie Leaves the NHL to Play in Europe


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TJ Tucker
June 16, 2023  (2:58 PM)
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A veteran goaltender who has been with the Tampa Bay Lightning for the last couple of seasons has signed a new deal overseas. It marks the first time in his pro career that he'll be playing outside North America.

Färjestad BK

Färjestad BK of the Swedish Hockey League has announced the signing of 30-year-old Maxime Lagace to a one-year deal. On Farjestad's website, Lagace said this is something he's been looking to do for years.
"I have long thought that it would be fun to play in Europe. I've played with many Swedish players over the years, and somehow I've always been able to socialize with them. They've always been nice people, and I've talked to the guys about what it's like to play in Sweden. That's probably why Sweden and the SHL have been the place to look for an opportunity." - Max Lagace

So Far

Lagace was never drafted into the NHL. He turned pro with the Texas Stars of the AHL in 2014-15. It wasn't until 2017-18 that he got a shot in the NHL, playing 16 games with the Vegas Golden Knights. He'd also suit up for Pittsburgh and Tampa Bay, but has spent the past two seasons with the Syracuse Crunch of the AHL. Färjestad currently has netminder Carl Lindbom, a 20-year-old draft pick of the Vegas Golden Knights, in their lineup. It's likely Lagace will be competing with him for the number one spot.

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