More than two weeks after the St. Louis Blues released Milan Lucic from his professional tryout contract, the veteran forward appears to have found his next destination - and it's far from the NHL.
On Monday, NHL insider David Pagnotta reported that Lucic is expected to sign in the United Kingdom's Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL), marking a major shift for the longtime NHL winger.
The EIHL is the top league in the U.K., though it ranks below top European circuits like Sweden's SHL or Finland's Liiga. Still, the league has drawn former NHL players before, including Brian McGrattan, Paul Bissonnette and Tom Sestito.
While the move has yet to be officially confirmed, Lucic is believed to be joining the Fife Flyers.
The situation has already created internal fallout, as Flyers COO Gareth Chalmers abruptly resigned, saying he needed to protect his «personal and professional integrity for decisions I am opposed to.»
Reports indicate Chalmers strongly objected to signing Lucic.
Gareth Chalmers issues a statement on Milan Lucic signing
Chalmers seems to be against this move, and issued a statement on the matter:
"I have made the very difficult decision to tender my resignation as the Chief Operating Officer of the Fife Flyers.
Following recent developments relating to the team, there have been multiple occasions where I felt strongly compelled to advise against a certain plan. Despite my concerns, the club has chosen to proceed, and while differences of opinion are very much part of any sporting environment, these plans placed me at odds with the clubs direction.
Experience has taught me that I cannot sacrifice personal and professional integrity for decisions I am opposed too.
When I joined the Flyers, I did so with genuine enthusiasm and a real belief that I could contribute to helping move the organisation forward. However, over recent weeks - and particularly following the most recent developments - I have sadly lost confidence and enthusiasm in the project.
I am genuinely gutted to be taking this step. The Flyers is a fantastic club with an incredible storied history, supported by exceptionally loyal fans and outstanding volunteers whose dedication has sustained the organisation for many previous years.
I would like to thank Jamie, Mike, Charles, all the players, team support staff, fans, sponsors, staff, volunteers and everyone associated with the club for your continued efforts.
Notable mentions go to Stephanie, Evelyn, Pam, Joe and John - your relentless hard work has played a huge part in getting us as far as we have. I would also like to thank the owners Tom, Felix and Max for the opportunity.
I genuinely wish you all, and the club, every success going forward. I will continue to follow the Flyers closely and hope to see the organisation move in a positive direction over the coming seasons."