Former NHL defenseman Aaron Rome sued the NHL and his insurance company after a career-ending hip injury, according to Sarah Mervosh of The Dallas Morning News.
Rome was injured as a member of the Dallas Stars in 2014, and was bought out by the club that summer following 52 appearances in two seasons with the club.
After failed attempts to make the Detroit Red Wings and AHL's Norfolk Admirals prior to the 2014-15 season on pro tryout deals, he made a claim for disability benefits from his insurance company, but was denied.
Mervosh reports:
A copy of the NHL's benefits guide included in the lawsuit says players will receive a lump sum if they suffer a career-ending disability, ranging from $200,000 to $1 million depending on their age. But it also says cumulative injuries do not count.
Prior to the 2014 injury, Rome had to have multiple surgeries and injured himself throwing a hip check.
Rome's lawsuit claims the NHL and the insurance company "mistreated an athlete who gave his heart and effort to professional hockey only to be betrayed by those who were supposed to help, protect, and provide benefits he undoubtedly deserves."
The amount being sought in the suit has not been disclosed.
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