Milan Lucic's Return to Hockey Takes a Turn After Viral Altercation

At the beginning of this season, Milan Lucic attempted a surprise return to professional hockey. Lucic had been out of the sport since 2023 following an NHL suspension stemming from a domestic violence incident involving his wife. At the time, it seemed like his career was officially finished, but the veteran had other ideas.

After sitting out of professional hockey entirely last year, Lucic signed a Professional Tryout (PTO) with the St. Louis Blues. While he ultimately didn't make the NHL roster, he joined the AHL's Springfield Thunderbirds for a five-game stint before deciding to take his career overseas. Lucic signed with the Fife Flyers of the EIHL (Elite Ice Hockey League), where he has played 18 games.

Tensions Boil Over: Lucic Confronts Teammate Logan Neilson

Through 18 games, the veteran has been statistically impressive, tallying 5 goals and 7 assists. Today, however, Lucic has returned to the hockey spotlight for all the wrong reasons. A new video has surfaced capturing a post-game incident where Lucic aggressively confronts 23-year-old teammate Logan Neilson.

As the team skates toward their goaltender, it is clear Lucic is deeply unhappy with his teammate, heavily jawing at the young left winger. While on-ice frustration is part of the game, Lucic crosses the line when he approaches the forward and throws a gloved hand directly toward his face.

The Impact on Lucic's North American Future

Cooler heads eventually prevailed once the two were separated by Fife Flyers teammates. I personally don't have any issues with teammates airing their grievances with one another—conflict happens. However, I firmly believe there is a time and a place for these actions. For a seasoned veteran like Lucic to initiate this in such a public manner is a clear issue in my opinion.

It’s highly unlikely anyone involved appreciates the fact that this incident occurred, let alone that the video is now going viral. If nothing else, this footage hurts Lucic’s chances of ever finding a home back in North American hockey. Instead, it serves as a glaring reminder that Lucic remains the same hot-headed individual who abruptly left the NHL in 2023.