NHL veteran trains for return, awaits league green light

Veteran NHL enforcer Milan Lucic dedicated his summer to training in New Jersey, aiming to secure another spot in the league.

However, his efforts may be in vain, as NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has yet to grant him the clearance to return to the ice.

Lucic, whose contract with the Boston Bruins expired on June 30, making him an unrestricted free agent (UFA), faces a significant hurdle.

Despite his free agent status, he cannot sign with any team without Bettman's approval.

This situation stems from an incident last November in Boston, where Lucic was arrested on two criminal charges. He pleaded not guilty in court, and subsequently, all charges were dismissed.

Following the arrest, Lucic was placed in the NHLPA assistance program and has been inactive in the NHL since.

The ongoing uncertainty surrounding his eligibility to play casts a shadow over his professional future.

Despite clearing his legal hurdles, Lucic's return to NHL action remains in limbo, pending a decision from league officials.

His situation highlights the challenges players face when off-ice issues intersect with their professional careers, potentially altering their path indefinitely.

Credit: House of Hockey
House of Hockey