The landscape of Canadian hockey has been deeply shaken by a series of sexual assault allegations, resulting in significant repercussions for several players and prompting widespread introspection within the sport.
Amid ongoing investigations and legal proceedings, four current NHL players have found themselves without new contracts. These decisions come on the heels of charges filed in connection with a lawsuit alleging sexual assault by members of Canada’s 2018 world junior team.
Players Left in Limbo
The Philadelphia Flyers' goaltender Carter Hart, the New Jersey Devils' Michael McLeod and Cal Foote, and Calgary Flames forward Dillon Dube were not extended qualifying offers by their respective teams, making them free agents. This development follows the earlier leave of absence taken by these players following the charges filed in February in London, Ontario, against five individuals involved.
The incident traces back to a 2022 lawsuit filed by a woman, then 20 years old, who alleged she was sexually assaulted by eight members of the Canadian team post a fundraising gala in London in 2018. According to the lawsuit, after being taken to a hotel room by one player, referred to as "John Doe #1," she was subsequently assaulted by other team members, prevented from leaving, and coerced into taking a shower and stating on video that she was sober.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Prompted by this lawsuit, investigations were reopened, leading to significant ramifications for those implicated. Detective Sgt. Katherine Dann from the London Police highlighted the investigative efforts, stating charges were pursued “for all the charges we have reasonable grounds for.”
The initial police investigation in 2018 was closed in 2019 without any charges. However, the public and media scrutiny that followed the 2022 lawsuit led to renewed efforts, culminating in the charges this year.
Wider Impact on Canadian Hockey
The scandal has also brought to light concerning practices within Hockey Canada, which reportedly maintained two secret funds to settle claims of sexual assault and abuse, raising questions about its internal oversight and accountability measures.
Alex Formenton, another player implicated in the allegations, has also been charged and is currently playing with the Swiss club HC Ambri-Piotta. His case underscores the international ramifications of the scandal, affecting not just domestic but also overseas careers.
NHL's Response and Players' Future
The NHL launched its own investigation in 2022, reflecting the league’s attempt to address and mitigate the impact of these grave allegations. With the four NHL players now released into free agency, their professional futures hang in the balance as legal proceedings continue.
The scandal has shaken the very foundations of the sport in Canada, prompting calls for comprehensive reforms within hockey organizations. The saga continues to unfold as the legal processes move forward, with the sports community and public closely watching the outcomes and hopeful for meaningful changes that uphold the integrity of the game.