Dillon Dube Signs AHL Professional Tryout with St. Louis Blues After Acquittal

The Acquittal and Its Aftermath: Dillon Dube’s Path Back to Professional Hockey

Dillon Dube’s journey back to North American professional hockey has officially begun. The 27-year-old forward, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges alongside four former teammates in July 2025, has signed an American Hockey League professional tryout agreement with the St. Louis Blues. The team announced Wednesday that Dube will report to their AHL affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds, once his work visa is processed. This development makes Dube the second of the five players to secure a path back to the NHL system through the AHL, following the long and highly publicized legal battle that sidelined their careers for nearly two seasons.

The move comes after a comprehensive review process by the Blues organization and follows the NHL’s reinstatement protocol established in partnership with the NHL Players’ Association. Dube, a native of Golden, British Columbia, spent last season playing for Dinamo Minsk in the Kontinental Hockey League after becoming ineligible for NHL play when charges were filed in early 2024. His return to the Blues organization represents a significant step toward potentially resuming his NHL career, which previously included six seasons with the Calgary Flames.

The acquittal and its aftermath piece details the seven-year journey from the alleged incident in June 2018 at a London, Ontario hotel room to the not guilty verdict on July 24, 2025. Prospective to NHL to AHL pathway and the interplay between league discipline and legal outcomes are explored, including reactions from the hockey world and the community impact. The Blues emphasized a comprehensive review and commitment to high standards as the team navigates rehabilitation and potential return-to-play for Dube and the other acquitted players.

St. Louis Blues offer AHL tryout to Dillon Dube after acquittal

The Blues’ decision to sign Dube to a professional tryout represents a calculated approach to player rehabilitation and roster development. In a statement released through ESPN, the organization emphasized that the move followed “a comprehensive review of the details of his case and discussions at all levels of our organization.” The team expressed confidence in offering the tryout and committed to providing support to ensure Dube contributes positively both on the ice and in the community.

Dube will join the Springfield Thunderbirds, the Blues’ AHL affiliate, where he must prove himself worthy of an NHL contract. This pathway mirrors the organization’s recent approach with veteran forward Milan Lucic, who signed a professional tryout earlier this fall. Lucic’s stint lasted five games before the Blues released him from the agreement, demonstrating that these tryouts represent genuine evaluation opportunities rather than guaranteed roster spots. Dube’s situation differs significantly, however, as he brings younger legs and a more recent track record of professional production.

The tryout structure allows the Blues organization to assess Dube’s current abilities without immediately committing to an NHL contract. After playing 42 games in the KHL last season, Dube arrives in Springfield needing to demonstrate that his skills remain sharp enough for North American hockey. The AHL provides an ideal testing ground where he can readjust to the smaller ice surface and more physical style while the Blues’ front office monitors his performance and evaluates his fit within their system.

What this means for the other acquitted players and league response

Dube’s signing carries implications beyond his personal career trajectory. Among the five acquitted players, Carter Hart has already returned to NHL action with the Vegas Golden Knights, while the others have taken different paths. Cal Foote signed with the AHL’s Chicago Wolves last week, Alex Formenton is playing in Switzerland, and Michael McLeod remains in the KHL. Dube’s willingness to accept an AHL tryout demonstrates a pragmatic approach to rebuilding his career from the ground up.

The Blues’ public statement included an important commitment to community standards, noting that “we will always hold our players to the highest of standards, consistent with the core values of our organization, and that will be emphasized as we move forward.” This language acknowledges the sensitive nature of the situation while asserting the team’s belief in second chances following legal exoneration. The organization appears to be threading a careful needle between supporting a player’s return and maintaining organizational values.

Community reaction remains divided, as it has throughout the legal proceedings. Protesters gathered outside the London courthouse during the verdict announcement, holding signs in support of the complainant. The emotional toll on all parties has been substantial, with the complainant’s lawyer stating her client was “devastated” by the not guilty verdict and felt she had not been believed. This broader context creates a challenging environment for teams willing to give these players opportunities.

Potential pathways forward for Dillon Dube with the St. Louis Blues

Success during his AHL tryout could open several doors for Dube within the Blues organization. The team has demonstrated willingness to promote from within, and a strong performance in Springfield might earn him an NHL contract for the remainder of the season. At 27, Dube still possesses the speed and skill that made him a second-round draft pick in 2016, and his 300+ games of NHL experience provide a solid foundation.

The Blues’ forward depth chart presents both challenges and opportunities. While the NHL roster features established veterans and emerging young talent, injuries and performance inconsistencies create periodic openings. Dube’s versatility as a forward who can play multiple positions and contribute on special teams enhances his value proposition. His previous NHL production—scoring 36 goals and 95 points in 300 games with Calgary—suggests he can be a capable bottom-six forward with middle-six potential.

The organization’s approach will likely mirror their handling of the Lucic situation in some respects but differ in key ways. While Lucic’s release came quickly due to injury and inconsistent production, Dube’s younger age and recent international playing experience give him a better chance to succeed. The Blues have invested time in reviewing his case thoroughly, suggesting they’re prepared to provide a legitimate opportunity if his play warrants it.

Community standards and organizational accountability

The Blues’ commitment to holding Dube to “the highest of standards” signals an awareness that his return extends beyond hockey performance. The organization will likely implement a support system to ensure positive community contributions and appropriate behavior. This approach acknowledges that while the court system found no criminal liability, the allegations themselves created a public relations challenge that requires careful management.

Other NHL organizations will watch the Blues’ handling of this situation closely. If Dube succeeds both on and off the ice, it may encourage other teams to consider similar opportunities for the remaining players. Conversely, any further incidents or public relations challenges could make teams more hesitant. The NHL’s ongoing review of the case findings adds another layer of oversight to the situation.

Dillon Dube’s signing with the St. Louis Blues for an AHL tryout represents the next chapter in a complex story that has tested the hockey community’s approach to justice, rehabilitation, and second chances. The Blues have offered a pathway back, but Dube must now prove he deserves it through his performance in Springfield and his conduct in the community. His success or failure will influence not only his own career but potentially how other organizations approach similar situations in the future. As the hockey world watches, the focus shifts from the courtroom to the ice, where Dube’s future will be determined by his play rather than his past.