Former 2018 Canadian junior hockey players return to professional play after acquittal

Five former members of Canada’s 2018 world junior hockey team—Alex Formenton, Carter Hart, Dillon Dubé, Cal Foote, and Michael McLeod—were acquitted in July 2025 of sexual assault charges related to a 2018 Hockey Canada gala in London, Ontario.

Following their acquittal, the NHL reinstated all five players for play beginning December 1, 2025. However, Hockey Canada’s appeal board determined that all five players breached the organization’s code of conduct, resulting in extended bans from national programs for three of the individuals.

Alex Formenton recently signed a one-year, US$850,000 contract with the Edmonton Oilers. His signing has faced public backlash, including an online petition and protests. The Oilers defended the decision by citing his acquittal and a lengthy due diligence process. Carter Hart signed a two-year, $4-million contract with the Vegas Golden Knights in October 2025 and played a role in their 2026 Stanley Cup run.