Deal of the century: Jonathan Cheechoo signs with Medveščak

This 32-year-old winger was born in Moose Factory, Ontario in Canada. He started his hockey path playing for the Kitchener Dutchmen of the MWJHL. His first NHL appearance was during the 2002/03 season for the San Jose Sharks, whom with he played 66 games recording 9 goals and 7 assists (16 points). He stayed with the Sharks for the next 5 seasons (during 2004/05 lockout he played in HV71 of Swedish Hockey League) when he transferred to the Ottawa Senators.

"We expect Cheechoo to be at top level in the KHL. In just one season in the NHL he scored 56 goals and played in the NHL All-Star game. In the last two seasons in the AHL he averaged a point in a game. We heard stories of him being a great player on and off the ice. He's got great work ethics and is excited to come to Zagreb", said Sports Director Aaron Fox.

In 2005/06 he received two NHL awards: the Maurice Richard Trophy for most goals and the NHL Most Game Winning Goals Award.

The only player better to have ever played in Medveščak could be Vyacheslav Anisin, a Russian superman, who played one season for the Bears recording amazing 55 points in only 31 games. The only one better than him that 1988/89 season in the Championship of Yugoslavia was another Russian playing for the Bears, Viktor Krutov with 73 points in 36 games.

Cheechoo spent last season playing for the Oklahoma City Barons of the AHL and during the regular season he played in 35 games recording 32 points (13G, 19A) while he scored 3 goals and added 9 assists in 17 playoff appearances.

In order to join his new team he first had to get permission from his Moose Cree tribal council, who clearly gave their consent, and Jonathan "The Train" Cheechoo will continue his career in Croatia.

Jonathan Cheechoo is expected to be a top-six forward and is the biggest superstar in the Medveščak's locker room for now.

For now...

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