Latest news with #GaryBettman
Time of India
5 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Acquitted but sidelined: Carter Hart, Cal Foote, Dillon Dube, Alex Formenton and Michael McLeod await NHL decision after Hockey Canada scandal verdict
Photo by Brian Babineau/NHLI via Getty Images The hockey world was stunned this week when a Canadian court delivered a not guilty verdict in a case that has dominated headlines for years. Five players connected to the 2018 Hockey Canada scandal—Cal Foote, Dillon Dube, Carter Hart, Alex Formenton, and Michael McLeod—were cleared of criminal charges on Tuesday in London, Ontario. Yet the verdict hasn't brought an automatic return to the NHL. Instead, the league has hit the pause button, opting to review the judge's findings before making any decisions. For fans and teams desperate for clarity, this uncertainty has sparked one question: what happens next for these players? NHL calls allegations 'unacceptable' as Gary Bettman reviews verdict in Hockey Canada scandal involving Carter Hart and four others Hours after the ruling, the NHL released a statement from its New York offices addressing the situation. The league didn't mince words: 'The allegations made in this case, even if not determined to have been criminal, were very disturbing and the behavior at issue was unacceptable,' the league wrote. 'We will be reviewing and considering the judge's findings. While we conduct that analysis and determine next steps, the players charged in this case are ineligible to play in the League.' The statement highlights an important reality: when it comes to personal conduct, the NHL doesn't simply follow the courts. Its policy operates independently of legal outcomes. That's why these players haven't appeared in an NHL game since the 2023-24 season, when they were ruled ineligible due to a conduct policy violation—not a conviction. Which Hockey Canada players are impacted—and when could the NHL reinstate them? The five players at the center of this story—Foote, Dube, Hart, Formenton, and McLeod—now face an uncertain future. While their legal battle has ended, the league's review process could take days or even weeks. If Commissioner Gary Bettman reinstates them, expect a rush of interest from NHL teams. Among the group, Carter Hart is the biggest name. The 27-year-old goaltender boasts more than 200 NHL starts and would instantly become a top free-agent target for clubs desperate for depth in net. The other four—Foote, Dube, Formenton, and McLeod—are also expected to land new deals quickly if given the green light. What this means for the NHL While the verdict closes a major legal chapter, the league's decision will shape its reputation for years. Fans and media are watching closely: does the NHL prioritize its integrity policy, or does it open the door for second chances? The courtroom may have delivered its verdict, but the NHL still holds the final say. Until Bettman and his team complete their review, these five players remain sidelined, and their futures hang in the balance. One thing is clear: the next move by the NHL will be among the most scrutinized decisions in recent memory. Also Read: Matthew Kessel gets engaged to his girlfriend while eyeing a bigger NHL role with the St. Louis Blues For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Forbes
5 days ago
- Sport
- Forbes
Will Carter Hart Ever Play In The NHL Ever Again
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - DECEMBER 29: Carter Hart #79 of the Philadelphia Flyers looks on during the ... More game against the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena on December 29, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by) Following his acquittal on sexual assault charges, the question being asked is whether Carter Hart will play again in the NHL. Hart has shown flashes of being a good goaltender in a league that is short on reliable goalies. It may not be right away, but expect to see Hart return to the NHL. Ultimately, the league will have a tough time categorically denying Hart's reinstatement. There is no doubt that the sexual assault charges faced by Hart, along with Michael McLeod, Alex Formenton, Dillon Dube and Callan Foote, were very serious in nature. And there is no doubt that the NHL CBA confers upon Commissioner Gary Bettman broad discretionary powers as its relates to player discipline. As per Paragraph 18-A.1, Bettman may impose discipline on players in cases where they have engaged in conduct that is deemed by the League as 'detrimental to or against the welfare of the League'. And these discretionary powers have been repeatedly confirmed by the Courts. Commissioner discipline, however, is not absolute in nature and must align with past practice and precedent. As well, the players were acquitted of the very serious criminal charges. In her decision read from the bench, Justice Maria Carroccia of the Ontario Court of Justice was unequivocal in her criticism of the Complainant E.M.'s credibility. She also declared she found consent, which means the sexual activity did not rise to the level of sexual assault: 'In this case, I have found actual consent,' Carroccia said. 'I do not find the evidence of E.M. to be either credible or reliable.' This categorical rebuke of the allegations, together with the acquittal of all five players, should assist in getting Hart reinstated. Justice Carroccia's decisive language may provide a path forward for the League. Of course reinstatement and actually being signed by a team are two different things. A player can be reinstated but not signed. Before a team takes on a player like Hart, it's likely it will conduct a cost/benefit analysis to assess whether there is a strong business case against the signing. Teams, like any other business, will want to assess the possible implications of signing any of the five players, including Hart. One possible scenario is the League may want to suspend the players to send a message to the public of its disapproval. Ultimately, however, expect any form of discipline imposed by Bettman to be contested by the NHLPA. The Union will argue the players did not engage in the alleged criminal activity and should therefore not face any further punitive consequences.
The Hill
6 days ago
- Sport
- The Hill
Honor the 1980 ‘Miracle on Ice' US Olympic team with Congressional Gold Medals
In 1980, the world was fraught with political division, economic shifts and global conflict. The Cold War loomed large, American hostages were being held in Iran, the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan had stoked international anxiety, and the U.S. was in the midst of a painful recession at home. Yet at this time of uncertainty, a single hockey game brought us together as Americans. On Feb. 22, 1980, a team of young athletes, mostly college students, took the ice in Lake Placid and achieved the impossible against the seemingly unbeatable Soviet Union National Team. The Soviets were four-time defending Olympic gold medalists, stacked with seasoned professionals. Team USA, both the youngest-ever U.S. national team and the youngest in the tournament, stunned the world with a 4-3 victory in what became known as the 'Miracle on Ice.' Two days later, the team secured the gold medal with a third period comeback win against Finland. Their improbable run gave Americans a renewed sense of pride and unity during a time of deep division and uncertainty. To commemorate the 45th anniversary of this iconic moment, we introduced the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the members of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men's Hockey Team. It is only fitting that we honor this team's achievement. It had a lasting impact on American history and the game of hockey in the United States. Once enacted, three medals will be displayed at the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado, the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame in Eveleth, Minn., and the Lake Placid Olympic Center in New York, commemorating this greatest sports moment of the 20th century. As National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman once said, 'The most special moments in sports actually transcend the playing surface.' In 1980, the Miracle on Ice was one such moment. For one night, there were no partisan divides or regional differences — only a shared celebration of what Americans can achieve together. That night, the Lake Placid Olympic hockey games transcended the sheet of ice where the 20 amateur hockey players battled for victory. The House of Representatives has already passed this bipartisan legislation unanimously, with the support of nearly 300 co-sponsors. We now ask our colleagues in the Senate to join us in honoring this historic team and the spirit of unity that the 1980 U.S. Men's Hockey Team inspired at the Olympics in Lake Placid. We urge swift bipartisan passage of the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Olympic hockey in 2026 promises ‘best-on-best' as NHL stars return to represent their nations
NHL stars are set to electrify the 2026 Winter Olympics (Getty Images) NHL stars are set for a major 2026 Winter Olympics return, having missed the last two. This comeback entails a unique collaboration with Italy's Serie A soccer league, focusing to globally publicize both sports through joint events in Milan. Players' long-held desire to represent their nations is finally being realized. Connor McDavid leads NHL's Olympic dream revival for 2026 Hockey enthusiasts have eagerly awaited this moment, as the absence of their beloved NHL stars from recent Olympic tournaments created a perceptible void. The desire to witness top-tier professionals representing their home nations on the grandest international stage has been immense. As Gary Bettman stated in 2022, "The National Hockey League respects and admires the desire of NHL players to represent their countries and participate in a 'best on best' tournament." While past logistical hurdles, particularly those stemming from the global pandemic, relinquished Olympic involvement impractical, a new chapter is now unfurling. During the NHL All-Star celebrations earlier this year, the league ratified its commitment to the 2026 Games. This announcement deeply reverberated with the players, as Connor McDavid phrased, "I feel like it's important for hockey as we continue to try to grow the game internationally and at home." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Knee Pain? Start Eating These Foods, and Feel Your Pain Go Away Click Here Undo His words underscore the intense impact this decision holds for the sport's worldwide development. An innovative alliance has also been forged with Lega Serie A. This unique partnership, subtly prefigured by the jersey swap between soccer legends Andrea Pirlo and Marco Materazzi and hockey's Mika Zibanejad, will feature athletes from both disciplines engaging in joint promotional activities. NHL players finally return to the Winter Olympics after over a decade The approaching NHL/NHLPA European Player Media Tour in Milan, the host city for the 2026 Olympics, illustrates this synergy. Andy Mitchell, CEO and MD of Lega Serie A USA, accentuated the goal: "To engage with a global audience in new and exciting ways." He further stated, "By bringing Lega Serie A legends and NHL stars together, we aim to create a synergy that showcases the best of each league." Keith Wachtel, President of NHL Business, added that this collaboration will generate "unique content that celebrates the intersection of hockey and soccer." This Olympic return is a direct acknowledgement of the players' ardent wishes. This confluence of top-tier hockey and elite soccer in the lead-up to the 2026 Winter Olympics promises an unfamiliar exhibit, thrilling fans and significantly expanding the global reach of both beloved sports. Also Read: Brad Marchand's disrespectful celebration resurfaces as Panthers clinch Cup — Canucks fans furious FAQs Q1: Why is the NHL's return to the Winter Olympics in 2026 significant? It marks the league's first Olympic participation since 2014, fulfilling players' long-standing wishes for global representation. Q2: What motivated the NHL to allow players in the 2026 Winter Olympics? The league acknowledged player demand and prioritized international growth and competitive integrity. Q3: Which NHL stars have expressed excitement about Olympic participation? Connor McDavid and David Pastrnak have openly supported the decision, calling it a dream and a long-overdue opportunity. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
The Independent
22-07-2025
- Sport
- The Independent
The sexual assault case against 2018 Canada world junior players nears a verdict
A judge is set to deliver her verdict Thursday in the sexual assault case in involving five members of Canada 's 2018 world junior hockey team. Michael McLeod, Carter Hart, Cal Foote, Dillon Dube and Alex Formenton faced a trial after an incident that occurred in London, Ontario, in 2018. What happened? A woman sued Hockey Canada in 2022, alleging she was sexually assaulted by eight members of Canada's world junior team after a fundraising gala in London in 2018. Hockey Canada settled the lawsuit, and then an investigation revealed the organization had two secret funds to pay settlements on claims of sexual assault and abuse. London Detective Sgt. Katherine Dann said in announcing charges in early 2024 that London Police received a call on June 19, 2018, from a relative of the victim and launched an investigation. That was closed in 2019 with no charges. The 2022 suit, which sought $3.55 million in damages and was dropped after reaching the settlement with Hockey Canada, led to police reopening the investigation and charges against five members of the team. The NHL launched its own investigation in 2022. Officials pledged to release the findings, though Commissioner Gary Bettman said in February that would depend on what the league can say given legal proceedings. The woman testified in May that she was naked, drunk and scared when four of the men showed up unexpectedly in her room at the Delta Hotel London Armouries in the early morning hours of June 19, 2018, and felt the only 'safe' option was to do what they wanted. Prosecutors contend the players did what they wanted without taking steps to ensure she was voluntarily consenting to sexual acts. Defense attorneys cross-examined her for days and suggested she actively participated in or initiated sexual activity because she wanted a 'wild night.' Who was charged? Hart, formerly of the Philadelphia Flyers; McLeod and Foote, formerly of the New Jersey Devils; Dube, formerly of the Calgary Flames; and ex-NHL player Alex Formenton, who had been playing in Europe with Swiss club HC Ambri-Piotta, were charged with sexual assault. McLeod is facing an additional charge of being a party to the offense of sexual assault. All five pleaded not guilty. None is on an NHL roster or has an active contract with a team in the league. Hart was the Flyers' No. 1 goaltender, while McLeod and Dube were regulars. Foote, a defenseman and son of former NHL player Adam Foote, primarily spent this past season in the American Hockey League. Formenton played in 109 games for the Ottawa Senators from 2017 through 2022 before going to Europe. What's next? Ontario Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia is solely responsible for handing down a ruling in the case after dismissing the jury in May, following a complaint that defense attorneys were laughing at some of the jurors. Carroccia said she had not seen any behavior that would cause her concern but concluded the jury's negative impression of the defense could impact their impartiality, a problem that could not be remedied. Possible fallout? There is a wide range of outcomes if any of the men are found guilty, with sentences in Canada for varying degrees of sexual assault ranging from no mandatory minimum up to 10 years in prison. It was not immediately clear whether the players would be able to return to the NHL if they are found not guilty. Bettman has said the league will let the legal case play out before taking any steps. Whatever the judge decides, Bettman has wide latitude to make decisions in the interest of the game when it comes to off-ice behavior. The league in 2019 suspended Los Angeles Kings defenseman Slava Voynov for the 2019-20 season and ensuing playoffs after determining he committed acts of domestic violence. Shane Pinto was suspended for 41 games for violating the league's gambling policy. There is an appeals process through the NHL Players' Association and an arbitrator jointly hired by the league and union to rule on disputes, when necessary. Hockey Canada, meanwhile, has lost several sponsors, including Nike, and its CEO and board resigned in 2022 in the wake of this and other scandals. ___
