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Milan Lucic's signing already takes an ugly turn just days after receiving his new deal

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Austin Sabourin
December 19, 2025 (6:10 PM)

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What looked like a quiet next step in Lucic's post-NHL career has quickly turned into a full-blown controversy overseas.

On Wednesday, Lucic signed with the EIHL's Fife Flyers, more than two weeks after his professional tryout with the St. Louis Blues ended.

The move marked his first official contract since leaving the NHL, but the reaction inside the organization was anything but smooth. Almost immediately, the signing triggered internal fallout.

Fife Flyers Chief Operating Officer Gareth Chalmers resigned in protest, making it clear the decision crossed a personal line for him.

Chalmers cited a need to protect his

«personal and professional integrity for decisions I am opposed to.»

Reports indicated Chalmers had been strongly against bringing Lucic into the organization, but the Flyers proceeded with the signing regardless.

The situation escalated further just days later.

On Friday, local sponsor Skyhook Helicopters announced it would end its partnership with the Flyers, cutting ties after supporting the club for the past two seasons.

The company released a statement explaining its decision.

«We recognise that the club represents more than what is seen on the ice and includes many dedicated staff, volunteers, and community members who give their time and effort to support the sport and its fans.»

It continued, «After careful consideration, Skyhook Helicopters has decided that, moving forward, we will have no further association with the club.

«This decision has not been taken lightly and reflects our commitment to professionalism, integrity, and our wider responsibilities as a business.»

Milan Lucic history complicates Flyers decision

Lucic's past is impossible to separate from the present reaction.

The former Bruins power forward faced some legal problems with his wife back in 2023.

Since then, Lucic has entered treatment to address alcohol addiction and anger issues, and he has publicly reconnected with his family, appearing healthier and more stable.

Still, his reputation remains polarizing.

Lucic is remembered in Boston as a key piece of the 2011 Stanley Cup team, a second-round pick in 2006 who built his career on physical dominance and emotional edge.

That same history now complicates his attempts to continue playing professionally.

For the Fife Flyers, the impact is already clear.

An executive resignation and a lost sponsor underscore how significant office decisions can reshape an organization overnight.

Lucic has yet to play a game for the Flyers, but the consequences of his signing are already being felt.

Previously on Boston Hockey Insider

Scary scene involving Boston Bruins top prospect surfaces: It was a near disaster

Boston Bruins to complete a deal before the NHL trade freeze takes place tonight

Bruins head coach Marco Sturm may be fined by the league following his comments on NHL refs

POLL
3 HOURS AGO \| 18 ANSWERS Milan Lucic's signing already takes an ugly turn just days after receiving his new deal Did the Fife Flyers make the wrong decision signing Milan Lucic?
▢ Yes mistake
▢ Too risky
▢ Deserves chance
▢ Unsure

Milan Lucic's signing already takes an ugly turn just days after receiving his new deal

What looked like a quiet next step in Lucic's post-NHL career has quickly turned into a full-blown controversy overseas.

Milan Lucic history complicates Flyers decision

Did the Fife Flyers make the wrong decision signing Milan Lucic?