Alex Formenton of Ambri in action during the Swiss National League match between HC Ambri-Piotta and EHC Biel-Bienne (Credit: Getty Images) The latest NHL updates brought clarity around Alex Formenton’s professional future in North America. Once viewed as a potential long-term piece for Ottawa, the forward has now been shut out of NHL action for the remainder of the season due to contractual timing and league rules.This development adds another layer to the ongoing fallout surrounding several players linked to the 2018 World Junior Championship team. While some have signed contracts elsewhere, Formenton’s situation underscores how limited NHL paths have become, even for previously established players.
Alex Formenton ineligible to play for Ottawa Senators
The National Hockey League confirmed that Alex Formenton is officially ineligible to play during the 2025–26 season after failing to sign a contract before the December 1 deadline for restricted free agents. Although the Ottawa Senators continue to hold his NHL rights, league regulations prevent him from suiting up this season.Formenton, 25, remains an unsigned restricted free agent. The Senators also had the option to trade his rights before the deadline, allowing another NHL club to sign him in time. No such trade materialized, effectively closing the door on any NHL return in the short term.Instead, Formenton had already signed to play in Switzerland, a move that now appears to be his primary professional path for the season. His status contrasts with other former Team Canada 2018 teammates. Goaltender Carter Hart secured an NHL contract, while defenseman Cal Foote signed in the American Hockey League. Dillon Dube and Michael McLeod opted for contracts in the Kontinental Hockey League.As the NHL news roundup continues to track player movement and eligibility decisions, Alex Formenton’s case stands as a reminder that returning to the league is never guaranteed. For now, his NHL future remains uncertain, with the earliest possible comeback coming next season; if an organization is willing to take that step.Also Read: NHL Update: Brad Marchand and his family hosts Thanksgiving to comfort teammates missing home