Cal Foote

Devils Players Michael McLeod and Cal Foote Take Indefinite Leaves of Absence

Find out why McLeod and Foote requested indefinite leave and the impact on the New Jersey Devils!

Michael McLeod and Cal Foote, players for the New Jersey Devils, have been granted indefinite leaves of absence by the team. This move comes after the duo, who were part of the Canadian World Juniors team in 2018, found themselves entangled in allegations of sexual assault alongside three other members. The Devils did not provide a specific timeline for their return, leaving fans and analysts speculating on the implications for the team's lineup and performance.

McLeod, a forward, and Foote, a defenseman, have been integral parts of the Devils' roster, with McLeod notably being selected 12th overall in the 2016 NHL Draft. Foote, on the other hand, has showcased his skills in four games so far this season. The sudden departures raise questions about the team's strategy and the players' well-being, underscoring the importance of mental health in professional sports.

As fans await updates on when McLeod and Foote will be back on the ice, the Devils face a period of uncertainty in their lineup and performance. Speculations swirl around potential replacements and the impact on team dynamics. The developments shed light on the challenging nature of balancing personal matters with professional sports careers, highlighting the pressures athletes face both on and off the ice.

In the midst of the leaves of absence, McLeod has excelled this season with a career-high of 10 goals through 45 games. Foote, known for his defensive prowess, has also shown consistency on the ice. These players' contributions have been significant, making their absences felt deeply within the Devils' lineup and emphasizing the importance of mental health support in the demanding world of professional hockey.