Former NHL draftee and convicted criminal Ben Johnson signs a new contract
Ben Johnson, once drafted by the New Jersey Devils, has signed a one-year contract with HK Dukla Michalovce in Slovakia. This news follows years of controversy surrounding Johnson's off-ice behavior.
Johnson, now 30, was originally selected in the third round of the 2012 NHL draft by the New Jersey Devils. His hockey talents were undeniable, leading to a promising entry-level deal with the franchise. However, his career was derailed by personal actions that eventually led to the termination of his contract.
Johnson was convicted of two serious incidents during his time with the OHL's Windsor Spitfires. Both offenses occurred in the washrooms of different bars, just weeks apart, leading to significant legal consequences for the player.
The first instance involves him coercing a 20-year-old woman into certain acts against her will. In the subsequent instance, Ben Johnson coerced an underage girl into performing the identical tasks without consent. The second female was under the influence of alcohol when the crime was committed.
Despite his criminal history, Johnson has secured a new opportunity to play professionally in Slovakia with HK Dukla Michalovce. This development has sparked controversy, with many questioning why a player with such a tainted past continues to receive chances in the sport.
Many fans have expressed, disappointed that Johnson is given the opportunity to profit from professional hockey. His past offenses have led to calls for him to be banned from the sport altogether, though no such worldwide ban has been enforced.
Source: Blades of Steel
Former NHL Draft Pick And Convicted Felon Has Signed A Professional Hockey Contract
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 14 | 108 ANSWERS Former NHL draftee and convicted criminal Ben Johnson signs a new contract Should Ben Johnson be banned from playing hockey globally? | ||
| Yes | 62 | 57.4 % |
| No | 46 | 42.6 % |
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