Insider Reveals Why Players On 2018 Team Canada Scandal Remain Anonymous

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Hunter Bowman
December 8, 2023 (6:40 PM)

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For several months, fans have anxiously awaited an official announcement from the NHL regarding suspensions for players implicated in the 2018 scandal. Reports have circulated for months, suggesting that at least "5 players" will face NHL suspensions in connection with the 2018 Team Canada scandal.

Insider Pierre LeBrun shed light on the anonymity surrounding the allegedly involved players, explaining that the NHLPA is now involved in the process. During an appearance on Insider Trading on TSN, LeBrun stated,

"What [Gary Bettman] alluded to, we believe in some of our own reporting, is that the league is in discussion with the NHLPA, the players, and agents about trying to get on the same page in what discipline would look like in their role on this incident."

LeBrun highlighted the complexity of the situation, indicating that if it doesn't evolve into a criminal matter, individuals involved may be hesitant to accept their own discipline. The resolution of this matter remains uncertain, and the timeline for an official announcement is unclear.

Drawing a parallel to a previous situation involving free agent Shane Pinto, who faced suspension for 41 games related to sports wagering, LeBrun suggested that a similar negotiation might occur for the players involved in the scandal. However, he expressed personal reservations, noting that the severity of the 2018 scandal doesn't equate to illegal gambling.

When news broke about the incident involving players from the 2018 junior team, several members publicly distanced themselves from the allegations. Statements from Robert Thomas, Jordan Kyrou, and the agency representing Carter Hart, Jake Bean, Kale Clague, Colton Point, and Taylor Raddysh denied any involvement in the incident. Other players from the Canadian championship team, including Cale Makar, Victor Mete, Conor Timmins, Sam Steel, and Jonah Gadjovich, also publicly stated their non-involvement.

Despite the public denials, the players implicated in court documents remain unidentified. LeBrun's recent reports suggest that clarity on their status may only come when there is an agreement between the NHL and its players' association.