In a surprising turn of events, Dillon Dube and Michael McLeod have found themselves listed on Kontinental Hockey League rosters for the upcoming season, despite awaiting trial in London, Ont., on charges of sexual assault dating back to February.
Dube, a player under contract with Belarus-based Dinamo Minsk through May 31, 2025, has seemingly found a new home after becoming an unrestricted free agent in June following his time with the Calgary Flames. On the other hand, McLeod has signed a one-year deal with Kazakhstan-based Astana Barys, as announced by the team on Friday.
It’s a shocking development for both players, who were left off their respective NHL clubs’ qualified lists after being charged with sexual assault. Dube and McLeod, along with Carter Hart, Cal Foote, and Alex Formenton, were all charged with one count of sexual assault, with McLeod facing an additional charge for “being a party to the offence.”
The allegations against these players stem from an incident following a Hockey Canada event in June 2018, and the legal proceedings are set to continue with a trial date potentially being scheduled on Aug. 13. Despite the serious nature of the charges, the players’ lawyers have maintained their clients’ innocence and stated they will plead not guilty in front of a judge and jury.
Dube, a 26-year-old forward, recently wrapped up a three-year contract with the Flames, averaging $2.3 million per season. He tallied three goals and seven points in 43 games last season. As for McLeod, also 26, his one-year, $1.4 million contract with the Devils expired on July 1 after a season where he recorded 10 goals and 19 points in 45 games.
It remains to be seen how this legal situation will impact their hockey careers moving forward, but for now, Dube and McLeod find themselves in unfamiliar territory as they continue to navigate the complexities of their legal battle.