NHL teams face a talent-versus-backlash dilemma as five acquitted players become eligible to sign. Carter Hart is viewed as the clearest on-ice asset likely to attract a strong starting role, while McLeod, Dubé, Foote, and Formenton must navigate reputational risk and varying resumes. The league and PA push for a return, but teams will weigh public reaction against potential production.

For fantasy ecosystems, Hart’s market value could surge on a contender with solid defense; others offer lower, more PR-sensitive upside. Formenton has slid to Europe; the others remain unproven at top-tier levels post-trial, making signing decisions a mix of talent, role certainty, and organizational messaging.

The saga underscores how culture, accountability, and performance intersect in roster-building, creating volatile climate for signings and sudden shifts in fantasy projections as teams balance optics with win-now needs.