NHL Players Face Sexual Assault Charges, Civil Suit

Five NHL players from Canada's 2018 world junior hockey team have been charged with sexual assault in London, Ontario, a case that was initially dropped but reopened in May 2022 following a CAD 3.5m settlement between Hockey Canada and the complainant, known as 'EM'. 'EM' has filed a civil suit against the team, the Canadian Hockey League, and the five players, seeking CAD 3.5m ($2.6m) in damages. The players deny the allegations, and the trial is not expected to begin until mid-2025. Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner, expressed surprise at the players' participation in NHL games during legal proceedings, and NHL fans have shown disappointment in his handling of the situation.