After much deliberation, one of the greatest sagas in NHL All-Star Game history has finally been resolved.
On Tuesday, the NHL announced that former Arizona forward John Scott -- traded to Montreal last week -- will retain his position as Pacific Division captain, and take part in the ASG in Nashville on Jan. 31.
More, from the league:
Scott, elected to the Pacific Division captaincy in fan voting while a member of the Arizona Coyotes, was traded Friday to the Montreal Canadiens of the Atlantic Division.
The resultant change in division, and Scott’s subsequent assignment to the American Hockey League, created a unique circumstance that required review – the result of which was a determination to maintain the status quo for the All-Star weekend in order to preserve all parties’ pre-existing expectations, including Scott’s desire to participate.
“I am looking forward to enjoying a fun and unique experience at All-Star Weekend in Nashville with my family,” Scott said in a statement. “While being voted to the All-Star Game by the fans was not something I expected to happen, I am excited to participate in the All-Star events with my fellow players.”
Previously, it had been reported that the trade to Montreal would keep Scott from playing in this year’s event. Aside from the switch in divisions, Scott isn’t even in the NHL anymore -- after acquiring him from the Coyotes, Habs GM Marc Bergevin sent the longtime enforcer to Montreal’s AHL affiliate in St. John’s.
Related: Coyotes GM ‘dumbfounded’ at suggestions he traded John Scott to keep him from All-Star Game