Barys Astana, a KHL club in Kazakhstan, has announced the release of three players from its roster, including NHL defensemen Nathan Beaulieu and Will Butcher, as well as forward Michael McLeod. The club terminated the contracts at its own initiative, providing compensation to the players.

Will Butcher, who spent last season with the Iowa Wild in the AHL, had a modest performance with three assists in 15 games for Barys after previously playing with the Minnesota Wild and Pittsburgh Penguins.