Graz99ers are strengthening with star defender Nick Bailen!

Graz99ers are strengthening with star defender Nick Bailen!

Graz, Österreich - The Graz99ers made an exciting commitment and brought the 35-year-old defender Nick Bailen from the DEL to Graz. The experienced American brings impressive references: almost 400 KHL games and over 100 games in the German Ice Hockey League (DEL). Sports director Philipp Pinter is euphoric about the obligation of the double KHL-All star and believes that Bailen could become a key player for defense and in the power play. He emphasized: "Nick could be a real stroke of luck for us".

The move to Graz takes place after the Cologne sharks and bails have found a surprising consensus on the dissolution of his contract that runs until 2026. During his time at the sharks, Bailen, who came from the KHL club Traktor Chelyabinsk in 2022, scored strong 82 scorer points in 112 games. The sports director of the Cologne Haie, Matthias Baldys, expressed thanks for Bailen's commitment: "We thank Nick for his commitment and wish him all the best for his professional and private future".

a new beginning in Graz

Nick Bailen is looking forward to the adventure in the Austrian Ice Hockey League and emphasizes the professional atmosphere and determination of the Graz99ers team. He announced that he was ready to give everything to support the club on the way to the championship. The new obligation not only stands for his individual career, but could also mean a turn for the Graz99ers in the course of the season, especially in phases in which experience and skill are required to stay competitive in the league.