New update on the controversial Alex Formenton situation in Ottawa!

The Ottawa Senators have started the season without forward Alex Formenton, who remains unsigned as a restricted free agent. He has until 5 pm ET on Thursday, Dec. 1 to sign a new contract or be ineligible to play the remainder of 2022-23.

Neither the Senators or Formenton’s camp is commenting on the contract statement, which prompted some fans and reporters to speculation that the status could be linked Canada’s 2018 World Junior team that’s under investigation over allegations of sexual assault. There is no indication that Formenton was involved, however, chatter has grown since he never commented on the incident.

Post Media’s Bruce Garrioch reports that Formenton has been skating in Toronto and points out to three options the 23-year-old has as the clock is ticking:

“No. 1: He signs with the Senators if general manager Pierre Dorion and agent Wade Arnott of Newport Sports are able to get a deal worked out before the deadline.

No. 2: The Senators trade his rights to get something in return and he signs with the club where he’s dealt. Formenton had 18 goals and 32 points in 79 games last season and you’d think there’d be interest.

No. 3: Formenton doesn’t get signed or traded by the deadline and is forced to play in Europe this season. The Senators would still retain his rights for restricted free agency.”

We will know what option is it one way or another by Thursday…