The hockey world was rocked this week by breaking news that could reshape the future of several high-profile players from Canada’s 2018 World Junior Team.

As the dust settles from a long-awaited verdict, speculation is already swirling about what comes next—and whether some of these once-celebrated athletes could soon make their return to the NHL.

The situation is anything but straightforward, with league officials and team executives weighing both ethical and competitive considerations before any decisions are made.

At the center of the conversation are three familiar names, each with the potential to spark controversy and excitement across the league.

As rumors intensify and insiders share new details, fans and analysts alike are left to wonder how this unprecedented scenario will unfold.

Will these players be welcomed back with open arms, or will their paths to redemption be fraught with obstacles? One thing is certain: the next chapter in this ongoing saga promises to keep the hockey community on edge.

Mar 13, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Flyers center Kevin Hayes (13), goaltender Carter Hart (79) and center Zack MacEwen (17) skate off the ice during overtime loss against the Montreal Canadiens at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

A major piece of news broke Thursday afternoon concerning the five players from Canada’s 2018 World Junior Team.

And following the verdict, many experts are already weighing the possibility of these players returning to the National Hockey League.

However, there are two obstacles standing in their way.

First, will the NHL allow them to return so quickly?

And second, will NHL teams even be interested in signing them?

Three of the Five 2018 Team Canada World Junior Players Could Sign in the NHL

If the first condition is met, we now have information regarding the second.

According to sources from The Athletic, three of the five players are already drawing interest for potential new NHL contracts.

And we even have names.

“There are NHL executives with interest in Carter Hart, Michael McLeod, and Dillon Dube.”

Wow, that didn’t take long..

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So, Hart, McLeod, and Dube could be the three players who end up signing new NHL contracts-if it officially becomes possible for them to do so.

Let’s also not forget that goaltender Carter Hart has already been linked to a specific NHL team.

In any case, this is definitely a developing story to watch.

Personally, at the moment, I’ll admit I’m having a hard time forming a clear and informed opinion on this whole situation.