Future Uncertain: NHL Teams Weigh Options for Acquitted 2018 World Junior Players
As the NHL training camps kick off, the future of five members of Canada's 2018 world junior team, who were acquitted of sexual assault charges, is a hot topic. Carter Hart, Michael McLeod, Dillon Dube, Cal Foote, and Alex Formenton are set to be eligible to sign and play in the NHL on Oct. 15 and Dec. 1, respectively. The players were cleared of charges from an incident in London, Ontario, seven years ago.
Philadelphia Flyers' general manager Daniel Briere confirmed that the team would not be pursuing Carter Hart, while Edmonton Oilers' counterpart Stan Bowman also stated that they are not looking to add him to their roster. Toronto Maple Leafs' Brad Treliving, who drafted Dillon Dube in Calgary, mentioned that the Maple Leafs have not focused on adding any of the acquitted players to their team.
Treliving emphasized the importance of being comfortable with a player both on and off the ice, considering their history and background. He highlighted the need to go through a thorough process before making any decisions regarding the potential addition of the five players to the team.
In conclusion, as the NHL teams prepare for the upcoming season, the status of the five acquitted players remains uncertain. While some teams have ruled out signing them, others are taking a cautious approach, considering various factors before making any decisions. The players' reinstatement process will determine their future in the league, with teams carefully evaluating the situation before making any commitments.