Dillon Dube’s next move gets complicated following latest insider report

Dillon Dube, once a promising forward for the Calgary Flames, is reportedly drawing renewed interest from NHL teams, though the extent of that interest remains unclear.

According to Chris Johnston, Dube’s future in the NHL is not hard to tell.

“Dube twice had 18-goal seasons as a forward for the Calgary Flames, but he produced only three goals and seven points in 43 games in 2023-24. He has drawn renewed interest from NHL teams, according to league sources, but it’s not clear how serious it is,” wrote Johnston.

Earlier this summer, Dube, along with Carter Hart, Michael McLeod, Alex Formenton, and Cal Foote, was acquitted of charges stemming from a June 2018 incident at a Hockey Canada gala in London, Ontario. After months of uncertainty, the group became eligible to sign contracts starting October 15, with NHL action resuming for them on December 1.

While the Carolina Hurricanes previously monitored both Hart and McLeod for potential deals, Dube’s next destination remains uncertain. He was somewhat linked to the Toronto Maple Leafs earlier in camp, as some speculated about a possible reunion between the forward and Leafs GM Brad Treliving, who drafted Dube 56th overall back in 2016 with the Flames. With a forward group already crowded, the Leafs appear unlikely to add another depth piece, especially one coming off a lengthy suspension and possible backlash from the Canadian fanbase.

NHL teams appear to be proceeding cautiously, weighing both his on-ice track record and the off-ice context before making a commitment.

For now, Dube remains unsigned, leaving fans and teams alike waiting to see if the forward will return to the NHL this season.