Alex Formenton had been in negotiations with the Sens but failed to sign a deal with them prior to December 1: he is thus not eligible to play in the NHL in the 2022-23 season. However, the NHL team will retain the forward's contractual rights.
Formenton, who recorded 18 goals and 14 assists in 79 games for the Sens last season, was also part of the World Junior team of Hockey Canada of which several players are currently under investigation for an alleged sexual assault of a woman in London, Ontario.
As HC Ambrì-Piotta states, they are aware of the allegations but since the player has "fully cooperated with the investigation of Hockey Canada" and they have talked with the player and his lawyer they see no reason not "to apply the presumption of innocence in favour of him." However, if there should be a new development regarding the ongoing investigation, the team and the player retain the right to reevaluate their contractual relationship.
