The most hated player in the NHL remains an unrestricted free agent
Former Florida Panthers forward Nick Cousins, who has earned himself perhaps the most unfavorable reputation in the NHL is still without a contract.
We are almost a full month into NHL free agency, and most teams have finalized their rosters, leaving few openings for players still seeking contracts for the next season.
One of these players is Nick Cousins, arguably one of the most disliked figures in the NHL. His reputation may be hurting his chances of finding a spot on an NHL team. Despite winning the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers this summer, Cousins remains unsigned, with roughly eight weeks until the start of training camp.
Cousins' aggressive style of play can be beneficial for his team, but it's worth considering how many players would want him as a teammate after witnessing some of his actions on the ice. Former NHL player Kevin Bieksa harshly criticized Cousins, even calling him a "rat" during an NHL broadcast.
Bieksa also implied Cousins was a coward, suggesting his behavior was a problem for the league as a whole.
"Somebody has to hammer this guy from the department of justice and put an end to these crappy hits because I hate em and that's a rat to me," said Bieksa. "I'm sorry it is."
Bieksa's rant went viral, and many fans agreed with his opinion. This makes you wonder if this sentiment is shared by players in locker rooms across the league.
Cousins had 7 goals and 8 assists for a total of 15 points over 69 regular season games last season. He also registered a single assist during his 12 appearances in the Panthers' playoff run to the Stanley Cup.
Source: hockeyfeedThe most hated man in the NHL is still unsigned.
| POLL | ||
27 JUILLET | 85 ANSWERS The most hated player in the NHL remains an unrestricted free agent Do you think Nick Cousins will play in the NHL next season? | ||
| Yes | 46 | 54.1 % |
| No | 39 | 45.9 % |
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