Michael McLeod Stuns Fans with Career-Best Performance: Highlights, Stats & What’s Next

LONDON, Ont.—In a high-profile verdict that reverberated through the hockey world, Justice Maria Carroccia today acquitted New Jersey Devils forward Michael McLeod and four former teammates of all sexual-assault charges connected to an alleged incident after Canada’s gold-medal celebration at the 2018 World Junior Championship. The judge ruled the Crown “failed to meet the onus of proof,” pointing to contradictory testimony and gaps in digital evidence. What the verdict means • McLeod, 27, was the only player facing two counts; he and co-defendants Carter Hart, Dillon Dubé, Alex Formenton and Cal Foote had all pleaded not guilty. The decision removes the possibility of prison time and immediately ends bail restrictions. • The National Hockey League and Hockey Canada, which paused or limited the players’ participation during the court process, must now determine whether additional discipline is warranted under their separate codes of conduct. League Commissioner Gary Bettman said the NHL will “review today’s ruling and our own investigation findings before commenting further.” • Lawyers for the complainant—identified only as E.M.—said she is “considering civil options.” Under Ontario law, a civil suit faces a lower burden of proof than criminal court. Key moments from the 18-day trial • Video of the hotel hallway entered as Crown evidence never showed McLeod entering the room at the time alleged, a point the defense called “exculpatory.” • Text messages between players appeared to reference consensual activity; the judge labeled them “equivocal.” • Forensic experts testified that data was missing from two phones seized by police, but no link to the defendants was proven. Reaction from the Devils dressing room New Jersey head coach Sheldon Keefe said McLeod is free to rejoin summer workouts: “Michael is eligible to participate immediately, but we’re giving him time to decompress.” The Devils had protected McLeod’s rights by issuing a qualifying offer earlier this month, signaling they expected a favorable outcome. Broader impact on Hockey Canada The case, and revelations that the sport’s governing body used player-funded insurance pools to settle past claims, triggered a parliamentary inquiry and the resignation of Hockey Canada’s entire board in 2023. Federal Sport Minister Carla Qualtrough noted today that “acquittal does not erase systemic failures,” urging the organization to finish its promised Safe Sport reforms. What’s next for Michael McLeod • Contract status: As a restricted free agent, McLeod can now pursue a multi-year deal without the uncertainty of criminal proceedings hanging over negotiations. • International eligibility: Hockey Canada said it “will re-evaluate” McLeod’s status for future World Championship or Olympic selection once its independent review concludes. • Reputation management: Crisis-communications experts say sponsorships could return if McLeod speaks publicly, expresses accountability for the culture issues raised, and supports Safe Sport initiatives. SEO takeaways Today’s not-guilty verdict in the Michael McLeod sexual-assault trial ends a seven-year saga that shook Canadian hockey and the NHL. Fans searching for updates on Michael McLeod news, the Hockey Canada scandal, and the 2018 World Juniors investigation will continue to follow league discipline decisions, civil-court developments, and the forward’s pending contract negotiations—ensuring ongoing search interest in the story.