An electrochemical battery cell with an electrical lead for electrical contact between one of the cell's electrodes and the side of the cell container. A portion of the lead, disposed between the electrode assembly and the side wall of the container, includes an initially non-planar shape that is in a partially deformed, compressed configuration within the cell to bias the lead against the internal surface of the side wall of the container, thereby applying sufficient force to provide good electrical contact between the electrode and the container. The initially non-planar shape can include one or more V-shaped or arc-shaped grooves, and the grooves can be disposed parallel to a longitudinal axis of the electrode assembly. Also disclosed is a process for making such a cell.