The landscape of professional hockey has shifted for several prominent players following a significant legal resolution. Five members of Canada's celebrated 2018 World Junior team—Carter Hart, Michael McLeod, Alex Formenton, Dillon Dube, and Cal Foote—have seen their NHL suspensions lifted after being acquitted in this year's high-profile Hockey Canada sexual assault trial. This development has cleared the path for their return to the sport, sparking widespread debate among fans, analysts, and franchises as these athletes aim to restart careers that were put on hold.
Navigating New Beginnings Across Global Leagues
With their eligibility restored, the players are embarking on diverse paths to reclaim their standing in professional hockey. Their journeys span from North America's premier leagues to prominent European clubs, each signing new deals to continue their play. The return marks a pivotal chapter, with their on-ice performance now crucial for securing long-term roles and opportunities within their respective new teams.
Current Team Updates and Contract Status
Goaltender Carter Hart, aged 27, has inked a substantial deal with the Vegas Golden Knights. The contract, signed in late October, is a two-year agreement worth $2 million annually. After playing three conditioning games with the AHL's Henderson Silver Knights, where he recorded a 3.07 goals-against average and an .839 save percentage, Hart was recalled by Vegas. He is set to bolster the team's netminding efforts, starting with a matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks as part of an upcoming five-game road trip.
Defenceman Cal Foote, 26, has joined the AHL's Chicago Wolves. Prior to this move, Foote showcased his skills in Slovakia with Liptovsky Mikulas, amassing an impressive 30 points in 38 games. To be eligible for a potential NHL call-up from the Wolves, Foote will need to secure an NHL contract.
On the wing, Alex Formenton (26) has taken his talents to Switzerland, signing with HC Ambri-Piotta in the Swiss National League. In 20 games so far, he has contributed 5 goals and 9 points. Notably, Formenton remains a restricted free agent with his NHL rights retained by the Ottawa Senators. A trade this season appears unlikely, which currently limits his immediate prospects for an NHL return.
Centre Michael McLeod, 27, has returned to the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), playing for Avangard Omsk. This season, he has tallied 5 goals and 7 assists in 17 games. McLeod previously played for Barys Astana in the KHL, posting 13 points in 19 games.
The lone player yet to sign a professional contract for this season is centre Dillon Dube, also 27. Dube last played for Dinamo Minsk in the KHL, where he recorded 11 points across 42 games. Before his suspension, he spent six NHL seasons with the Calgary Flames, accumulating 127 points in 325 games. His next move remains a point of speculation in the hockey world.
Looking Ahead: Performance Determines Future
The acquittal and subsequent return of these players close a lengthy and challenging period off the ice. However, the focus has now decisively shifted back to their performance on it. As they integrate into new teams and leagues, their ability to demonstrate skill, consistency, and professionalism will be under intense scrutiny. Their success or failure in this comeback attempt will ultimately define the next phase of their hockey careers and shape the ongoing conversation surrounding their return to the sport they once dominated as juniors.
