Canadiens make controversial decision on shamed prospect

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Liam
September 11, 2023 (3:58 PM)

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Now that NHL training camps are slotted to begin this week, there's been plenty of rumours circulating on what will happen with controversial Montreal Canadiens draft pick, Logan Mailloux. Now, the Habs Vice President Jeff Gorton is making his plans clear.

In a comment to the Montreal media, Gorton stated that if Mailloux makes the Canadiens out of training camp based on the merit of his play, he will suit up in the NHL this season.

"Jeff Gorton says Logan Mailloux should be clear to play if he makes the NHL. He'll still have to be officially cleared by Gary Bettman if he makes it. Gorton says it basically should be a formality based on a prior meeting with the league." - Eric Engels

The Habs have other options however, as Mailloux would be eligible to return to junior hockey or their AHL affiliate, the Laval Rocket.

Mailloux was selected 30th overall by Montreal in 2021, despite the defenceman renouncing himself from the draft weeks prior, as a result of his scandal. Mailloux played in Sweden the year before the draft, and was fined approximately $1500 USD for taking and then spreading photos on a young woman while the two were engaged in a sexual act, without her consent or knowledge. Mailloux was suspended from the OHL for this crime, while NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman stated Mailloux would have to receive approval directly from Bettman himself in order to play in the NHL.