The saga surrounding the 2018 Team Canada World Juniors continues to captivate the hockey world, as recent developments have brought new twists to an already controversial story.

In the wake of a highly publicized verdict, attention has turned once again to the futures of the five players involved—sparking rumors, speculation, and heated debate among fans and insiders alike.

While some of these former prospects are reportedly drawing interest from NHL teams eager to offer a second chance, the outlook for others appears far less hopeful.

As the dust settles, two names have emerged at the center of renewed discussion, raising questions about redemption, reputation, and the harsh realities of professional sports.

The fate of these athletes remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the ripple effects of this case are still being felt across the league, and the final chapter has yet to be written.

Feb 26, 2022; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators left wing Alex Formenton (10) chases the puck as he skates past Montreal Canadiens goalie Andrew Hammond (37) and defenseman Jeff Petry (26) in the second period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

Following the verdict announced in recent hours, the case of the five players from the 2018 Team Canada World Juniors is once again making major headlines.

Earlier today, we reported that three of those five players have already received serious interest (for contracts) from various NHL teams.

No, it didn’t take long..

Carter Hart, more specifically, has already been linked to a particular team in the NHL.

Yes, there are already several rumors currently swirling.

Now, we have new information regarding the other two “2018 WJC” players who weren’t mentioned in the article above.

It’s Reportedly Over for Alex Formenton and Cal Foote

According to sources from The Athletic, both Formenton and Callan Foote are no longer considered for NHL returns.

Unlike their three former teammates, these two are not expected to ever return to the NHL.

“It’s highly unlikely that Alex Formenton and Callan Foote return to the NHL.”

NHL teams have absolutely no interest in them.

The Athletic confirms NHL executives have shown interest in Carter Hart, Michael McLeod, and Dillon Dube.

They report that it is unlikely Alex Formenton, who retired from professional ice hockey over a year ago to work construction, and Callan Foote, who currently plays in Slovakia, return to the NHL.”

– PuckEmpire

So it appears the book may already be closed on those two, but either way, this is a story we will continue to follow closely, as it’s likely unprecedented in NHL history.

Foote, 26, is a 6-foot-3, 224-pound right-shot defenseman who was a first-round pick (14th overall) by the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2017.

He recorded 20 points and 137 penalty minutes in 145 career NHL games.

In 2024-25, while playing in Slovakia, he posted 30 points in 38 games.

Formenton, 25, is a 6-foot-3, 195-pound forward who was a second-round pick (47th overall) by the Ottawa Senators in 2017.

He totaled 39 points and 71 penalty minutes in 109 NHL games.

He played in Switzerland during the 2023-24 season, registering 16 points in 24 games with Ambri-Piotta.