Haukeland was one of the heroes when Norway sensationally took bronze at the Ice Hockey World Championship in May. On Tuesday it was announced that he is moving to Traktor Chelyabinsk from his German club Straubing.
Haukeland says he previously had offers from the KHL, but turned them down. He had been hoping for a chance in the NHL, but when it didn’t come, he chose Russia.
On Vladimir Putin using the KHL and Russian sports as a propaganda apparatus, Haukeland said:
“I understand this is raised by many, but this is, first and foremost, a career decision for me as a hockey player. I don’t want to get into political issues.”
Haukeland’s move means he will be suspended from the Norwegian national team.
