On Wednesday, London Police ordered five members of Hockey Canada's 2018 World Juniors gold medal-winning team, including Dillon Dube of the Calgary Flames, Carter Hart of the Philadelphia Flyers, Cal Foote and Michael McLeod of the New Jersey Devils, and Alex Formenton playing in Switzerland, to surrender within the next two weeks. All these players took indefinite leave from their NHL teams in response to the investigation.
The situation has raised concerns, especially for Carter Hart, with reports suggesting that the Flyers looked at trading him during the summer, anticipating the unfolding developments.
General Manager Daniel Briere addressed the media during his midseason press conference, acknowledging the seriousness of the matter and stating that the team will respond appropriately once the investigation outcomes are public. The NHL has instructed teams to direct investigation-related questions to them.
This incident adds a layer of uncertainty for the Flyers, as they navigate the potential fallout. The offseason had already seen trade rumors surrounding Hart, with links to teams like the Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Buffalo Sabres, and New Jersey Devils.
Hart, who is scheduled for restricted free agency, was playing under the last year of a three-year, $11.937 million deal with a cap hit of $3.979 million. However, the goaltender might now face more serious matters than free agency. Before taking leave, he played 26 games this season with a record of 12-9-3, a goals-against average of 2.80, and a .906 save percentage. The Flyers organization, following NHL guidance, has refrained from commenting further until the investigation progresses. The situation has undoubtedly cast a shadow over Hart's future and the team's plans.
