The NHL announced on Thursday that the five players acquitted in the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial will be eligible to return to the league when their suspensions conclude on December 1. These players, who are currently unrestricted free agents, will have the opportunity to sign with a team starting on October 15 while awaiting full reinstatement.
The individuals involved in the case include Michael McLeod, Dillon Dube, Cal Foote, Alex Formenton, and Carter Hart. They were initially charged with one count of sexual assault, with McLeod facing an additional charge of being a party to the offenses. Following a two-month trial in London, Ont., all five players were acquitted of the charges on July 24.
After the court’s ruling, the NHL had initially deemed the players ineligible to compete pending a review of the judge’s findings. The league conducted its investigation starting in the spring of 2022, acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations and emphasizing the importance of moral integrity in player conduct.
In response to the developments, the NHL Players’ Association expressed satisfaction that Dube, Foote, Formenton, Hart, and McLeod will have the opportunity to resume their careers. The union highlighted the players’ cooperation with the investigations and the resolution reached with the league to facilitate their return to the sport.
Deputy commissioner Bill Daly had hinted earlier in the week about an upcoming update on the matter, emphasizing the league’s commitment to a thorough review process. Regarding specific players like Carter Hart, team executives refrained from commenting further, deferring to the NHL’s leadership on the issue.
Hart, McLeod, Dube, and Foote last participated in NHL games in January 2024 before being sidelined due to the legal proceedings. While the extent of their future signings remains uncertain, Hart, a seasoned 27-year-old goaltender, stands out as a strong candidate for a return to professional play.