Now that the five 2018 Hockey Canada sexual assault accused have been acquitted, the next step in the process is unfolding rather quickly. As a result, multiple players have already drawn interest, including at least one of the ex-New Jersey Devils players.
As Elliotte Friedman reported on Friday, and the NHL later confirmed, the five who were all found not guilty over the summer will soon be able to sign with an NHL team, and continue their careers.
READ MORE: Ex-Devils Acquitted in Trial to be Reinstated
According to NHL insider, Chris Johnston via his podcast, The Athletic insider explained he believes Michael McLeod will draw considerable interest, in addition to Carter Hart and Dillon Dubé.
“I do think there will be considerable interest, particularly in Carter Hart, but also Michael McLeod and Dillon Dubé,” said Johnston.
As it turns out, David Pagnotta via The Fourth Period confirmed Johnston’s belief, explaining McLeod has “attracted interest from multiple teams.”
It is not yet known if the Devils are one of the interested parties.
On Hart, Johnston reports he’s already expected to sign a contract by October 1st, which cannot be filed until later in the month on the 15th. In fact, it sounds like Hart has options, and both expected parties, the Philadelphia Flyers and the Edmonton Oilers, are not among the candidates.
It’s a fresh start.
That could be the case for McLeod, too. Although, nothing is confirmed.
During 2023-24, the last season he played in before he was summoned to appear in court in London, Ontario, McLeod was playing strong two-way hockey. He was one of the Devils’ better checking forwards, and was on pace for nearly 20 goals in a fourth line capacity.
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