The Kölner Haie from the German Ice Hockey League (DEL) have landed a transfer coup by signing US defender Nick Bailen.
The 32-year-old last played for Traktor Chelyabinsk in the Russian professional league KHL and was voted the best defender of the season. Bailen receives a one-year contract.
“Nick Bailen is an attacking, right-shooting defender who has proven his quality in various leagues in Europe for several years,” said coach Uwe Krupp. “With this signing, our squad planning is now complete.”
Bailen, who has both American and Belarusian citizenship, has played in Finland, Sweden, Belarus and Russia since moving to Europe.