‘It looked like it hurt so bad’: NHL star’s explosive text rocks Hockey Canada World Junior sex assault trial

NHL player Brett Howden on Thursday (May 22) became visibly emotional while testifying about the events of June 19, 2018, during the ongoing sexual assault trial involving five former members of Canada's 2018 World Junior hockey team. Howden was also a member of the World Junior Team along with the five accused players.

Howden, now with the Vegas Golden Knights, recounted feeling "scared and nervous" after learning that Hockey Canada had initiated an investigation into the incident.

He expressed anxiety over having to explain the situation to his parents and then-girlfriend, now his wife. His testimony centered on a text exchange with former teammate Taylor Raddysh, in which Howden described witnessing Dillon Dube "smacking this girl's a-- so hard, like it looked like it hurt so bad."


Also read: Jury dismissed in Hockey Canada ex-junior players’ sexual assault case, judge to decide fate alone

Howden has testified that he went to McLeod’s room because he wanted food and was surprised to find a woman there.

The trial, presided over by Ontario Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia, has faced multiple disruptions

A mistrial was declared in April 2025, and more recently, the jury was dismissed after jurors reported feeling mocked by defense attorneys. The case now proceeds as a judge-alone trial.

The sexual assault case

Dube, Michael McLeod, Carter Hart, Alex Formenton, and Callan Foote have pleaded not guilty to sexual assault. McLeod has also pleaded not guilty to an additional charge of being a party to the offence of sexual assault.

The charges stem from an alleged incident at a London, Ontario hotel following a Hockey Canada gala. The complainant testified that she was intoxicated, naked, and felt compelled to comply with the players' actions, describing herself as being on "autopilot."

Defense attorneys have argued that the sexual activity was consensual, suggesting the complainant initiated the encounter. However, the prosecution contends that the players did not ensure consent, emphasizing the complainant's impaired state.

The trial has also brought to light broader issues within Hockey Canada, including the organization's handling of sexual misconduct allegations and the use of funds to settle such cases.

Public scrutiny has intensified the investigation, leading to significant changes in Hockey Canada's leadership and policies.