The Vancouver Canucks organization has been hit with a $50,000 USD fine from the NHL for violating the league’s by-law 15 for tampering.
The potential of a fine has been looming for nearly a week after GM Jim Benning visited a Vancouver radio station and commented on contacting Steven Stamkos’ agent pending his free agency.
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“Canucks General Manager Jim Benning violated the provisions of NHL By-Law 15 relating to inappropriate public comments by speaking generally to his Club’s potential interest in players under contract to other NHL Clubs,” said NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly.
“I spoke with Jim and accept his representation that he intended no harm with his comments and that he will handle similar questions from the media differently in the future,” the Deputy Commissioner added.
Under league rules, teams are not permitted to discuss interest in players who are under contract, and cannot sign free agents until July 1.
During the same interview, Benning also mentioned the idea of acquiring P.K. Subban from the Montreal Canadians through a trade. Shortly after, the Canadians’ GM told reports that Benning crossed the line.
Following the fine from the NHL, GM Benning released the following statement via the Canucks twitter account.
#Canucks General Manager, Jim Benning, releases the following statement. pic.twitter.com/TfvIxZLEH0
— Vancouver Canucks (@VanCanucks) June 28, 2016
Photo: Vancouver Canucks
