The Vegas Golden Knights face significant penalties from the NHL after breaking league media requirements following their Thursday night playoff victory against the Anaheim Ducks in their Western Conference semifinal matchup.
The team must surrender a second-round selection in the 2026 NHL Draft due to what the league called “flagrant violations” of media policies after their 5-1 win in Game Six.
Head coach John Tortorella received a $100,000 fine for failing to speak with reporters following the Golden Knights’ victory.
The organization also prevented media access to their locker room after the game ended. Only forwards Mitch Marner and Brett Howden addressed reporters at the main podium, while defenseman Shea Theodore gave a brief interview in a separate room at Honda Center in Anaheim, California.
Tortorella additionally skipped the traditional post-game handshake line after the win.
According to an NHL statement, Vegas had received previous warnings regarding “compliance with the media regulations and other associated policies.”
The Golden Knights acknowledged the league’s punishment in a Friday post on X, stating they are aware of the penalty and will not comment further.
Vegas can challenge the NHL’s decision next week through an appeal to commissioner Gary Bettman’s office.
The Golden Knights advance to face the Colorado Avalanche in the Western Conference championship round.
