The Los Angeles Kings have been fined $100,000 for violating the terms of defenseman Slava Voynov's suspension, the NHL announced Tuesday.
From the official release:
Voynov skated with teammates today during a Club practice. Such activity is in direct contravention of the terms of the suspension levied Oct. 20, which permit Mr. Voynov to use club facilities and work with team personnel but prohibit his participation in any team-related functions or activities.
Voynov recently pleaded not guilty to a domestic violence felony charge and is expected to appear in court Dec. 1.
Head coach Darryl Sutter attempted to explain why Voynov was on the ice to Rich Hammond of the Orange County Register:
It was an optional skate and everybody went. (Voynov) is supposed to come out after with the injured guys, right after practice. Everybody (skated) today. It was an optional skate, and normally he goes out with injured players after practice or by himself after practice. Today he was out there early.
The Kings organization also released a statement on the matter, admitting they erred in their handling of the situation:
This was clearly a mistake on our part and we accept full responsibility. It is incumbent upon us to be more vigilant in managing this situation to ensure that Slava's allowable training activities always remain separate from the team.
The NHL wasted no time in making the decision, as the fine came down two hours after the Kings' practice had ended.
