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Slava Voynov's agent attempting to get NHL to lift indefinite suspension

Marc DesRosiers / USA TODAY Sports

Slava Voynov's agent is working towards having his client's suspension lifted by invoking a section of the NHL's collective bargaining agreement that allows for an official hearing on the matter. 

The Los Angeles Kings defenseman was suspended indefinitely by the league last month after being arrested on suspicion of domestic violence, and has not played since Oct. 19.

Rolland Hedges, Voynov's agent, told Lisa Dillman of the Los Angeles Times he believes the suspension is infringing on his client's rights. As such, he will be requesting that the NHL lend an ear to Voynov’s concerns with a view to ruling on whether he could return to game action immediately, rather than waiting for the prosecutor’s office to make a decision on the case.

However, Voynov hasn't put himself in the right position for the league to reconsider its decision, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.

Still, Hedges argues his client should not be held back from plying his trade.

“The player hasn't been charged with any offense at this point and it’s very difficult for the NHL. We understand that," Hedges  "But there comes a point where the player's rights have to be looked at. From this point forward, the player is going to see what can be done to have the suspension lifted. The player has no control over the criminal prosecution at this point, nor should he."

Hedges continued:

(Voynov) has cooperated with everything he’s been asked to do. All he’s doing is to look forward to get back to playing hockey. If he is subsequently charged, he looks forward to defending himself on those charges, if in fact they do occur. Slava believes he is innocent. If he has to have his day in court, he will. We all respect the law. But there comes a point where you just can't sit back.

Investigators are expected to meet with the district attorney's office on Monday to discuss the case.

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