Criminal former Calgary Flames prospect Topi Rönni signs new pro contract

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Austin Kelly
June 5, 2024 (4:19 PM)

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Slovakian top division club HK Dukla Michalovce has signed Center Topi Rönni, the former Calgary Flames draft pick who had his draft rights renounced by the club after being found guilty of a crime committed while he was a minor.

Rönni was convinced on one count of rape in a Helsinki court from an allegation made in 2021, before he was drafted 59th overall the following year by the Calgary Flames. The Calgary Flames said in a statement that the team found out about the pending trial after his selection in the 2022 NHL Draft, later cutting ties with Rönni after the conviction by the Helsinki courts, a one year suspended sentence.

Rönni had his contract terminated by his Finnish club Tappara, having played in 22 games with 2 points. Rönni hat not played in the NHL with the Calgary Flames prior to his dismissal.

In a statement, Dukla Michalovce expressed acknowledgement at the circumstances regarding Rönni, and say the team is hopeful in giving the now 20-year-old Center a second chance.

We expect responsible play, youthful ferocity and professionalism from Topi. We believe that he will make full use of his talent here in Michalovce. It's not every day that young players who were drafted by an NHL club in the 2nd round come to us. Topi already showed during the last season how much he wants to work for us, when he was with his family during the playoffs in Michalovce and watched our team to find out as much information as possible about the club.

Of course, we are aware that Topi made a mistake a few years ago for which he was punished. Our club decided to give him a helping hand and give him a second chance, which we hope he will use and prove his hockey qualities.

POLL
JUIN 5 \| 80 ANSWERS Criminal former Calgary Flames prospect Topi Rönni signs new pro contract Do you think Topi Ronni will ever return to the NHL?
Yes	28	35 %
No	52	65 %
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