NHL denies Golden Knights’ appeal to get draft-pick punishment reduced, AP sources say

1 1 minute read

The NHL has denied the Vegas Golden Knights’ appeal to reduce their punishment for breaking media access rules. As a result, the team will lose a second-round pick in the upcoming draft, according to sources familiar with the situation.

The league had previously docked Vegas the second-rounder and fined coach John Tortorella $100,000 for what it deemed as flagrant violations of media regulations. After the team’s second-round-series-clinching Game 6 victory at Anaheim, Tortorella refused to speak to reporters, and the team did not open its locker room, prompting the league’s disciplinary action.

In a statement, the NHL revealed that the Golden Knights had been warned about not following media and other policies in the past. The team had the opportunity to appeal in person to Commissioner Gary Bettman, but their efforts were unsuccessful in getting the pick back or reducing the fine.

General manager Kelly McCrimmon expressed regret over the missed opportunity to connect with fans following the playoff series victory. He took responsibility for the team’s actions and assured that such a situation would not occur again.

The loss of a second-round pick is the most severe punishment for breaking media access rules in NHL history. Despite the setback, the Golden Knights are set to face off against the Colorado Avalanche in the Western Conference Final.

Tortorella, who took over as coach on an interim basis earlier in the season, has a history of fines for various transgressions during his time in the NHL. He led the Tampa Bay Lightning to a Stanley Cup victory in 2004.

It is clear that the NHL takes media access rules seriously and expects teams to comply with regulations to maintain transparency and engagement with fans. The Golden Knights’ appeal denial serves as a reminder of the consequences of disregarding league policies.

In conclusion, the NHL’s decision to uphold the punishment for the Golden Knights sends a strong message about the importance of media access and accountability in professional sports. The team will need to learn from this experience and ensure that they adhere to all league regulations moving forward.