Milan Lucic: A veteran's rocky road to a possible NHL comeback
After an illustrious career spanning 1,177 games in the NHL, Milan Lucic's journey has hit a significant roadblock following a troubling incident and a stint in the Player Assistance Program.
At 36, the veteran power forward is eyeing a return to the league, a comeback fraught with hurdles both on and off the ice.
Milan Lucic is currently ineligible to play in the NHL and requires clearance from Commissioner Gary Bettman to re-enter the league. As reported by Frank Seravalli, Lucic is training in New Jersey, gearing up in hopes of securing another contract. The question that looms large is not just about his physical capability but also his off-ice conduct which led to criminal charges. Although these were later dropped when his wife declined to testify, the incident has cast a long shadow over his career.
Lucic's last stint was with the Boston Bruins-the team where he began his NHL journey and celebrated his highest career highlight by lifting the Stanley Cup in 2011. This could have been a sentimental farewell tour, but it was abruptly cut short after just four games due to the aforementioned incident. Despite the nostalgic ties, his recent performance had been declining, with Lucic not scoring more than 25 points in the last six seasons. This dip in form raises doubts about his ability to contribute effectively on the ice, especially given the physical demands of the league.
From the Boston Bruins to stints with the Los Angeles Kings, Edmonton Oilers, and Calgary Flames, Lucic was once known for his scoring prowess and physical play. His early career was marked by notable successes, including a career-high of 30 goals in the 2010-11 season. However, his performance waned in later years, particularly during his time with the Calgary Flames, where he quickly fell out of favor.
The complexities of Lucic's situation are manifold. His potential as a source of veteran leadership, once a valuable asset, is now under scrutiny due to his off-ice behavior. His efforts to rehabilitate, including counseling for alcohol abuse, suggest a commitment to change, but whether this is sufficient for a team to take a risk on him remains uncertain.
As Lucic's future hangs in balance, the NHL community watches closely. Will he receive the clearance needed from the NHL's top office? And even if he does, will any team consider his experience and leadership enough to outweigh the risks? These questions will decide if there's another chapter in the career of Milan Lucic or if this marks the end of his time in the NHL. His story is a poignant reminder of how personal challenges can intersect with professional life, influencing not just an individual's career but also their legacy in the sport.
| POLL | ||
15 AOUT | 63 ANSWERS Milan Lucic: A veteran's rocky road to a possible NHL comeback Do you believe Milan Lucic will play hockey again? | ||
| Yes | 12 | 19 % |
| No | 51 | 81 % |
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