The NHL has announced that Slava Voynov has been suspended for the 2019-20 season. This suspension is for unacceptable off-ice behavior. Voynov was originally suspended in 2014 after domestic abuse allegations against his now ex-wife. In 2015 the Los Angeles Kings terminated Voynov’s six-year,$25 million deal. Voynov was sentenced to 90 days and in jail and three years of probation after pleading no contest. The plea deal stems from a misdemeanor charge of corporal injury to a spouse in July 2015. The Ex-King returned to Russia. He spent the past few years playing in the KHL.
Slava Voynov has been suspended for the entire 2019-20 NHL season (including playoffs) for unacceptable off-ice conduct. Voynov’s eligibility to play in the NHL will be restored (assuming good behavior) no later than July 1, 2020. https://t.co/zd7jDQI4TU
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) April 9, 2019
Slava Voynov Suspended for 2019-20 Season
In a release today NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said I have determined that Player Slava Voynov engaged in acts of domestic violence directed at his wife,” Commissioner Bettman said in a release on Tuesday. “Today’s ruling, while tailored to the specific facts of this case and the individuals involved, is necessary and consistent with the NHL’s strongly-held policy that it cannot and will not tolerate this and similar types of conduct, particularly as directed at a spouse, domestic partner or family member.”
Voynov spent the four years of his NHL career with the Kings. In that time he scored 18 goals and 63 assists for 81 points in 190 career games. He was originally drafted in the second round, 32nd overall in the 2008 NHL Draft by the Kings. Voynov has spent the last three seasons playing in the KHL.
The NHL Players Association is reviewing the decision. Voynov does have the right to appeal the decision. That said if the appeal is upheld Voynov is expected to be reinstated no later than July 1st, 2020. This is dependent on good behavior and is subject to change. Voynov would be a UFA in 2020 if allowed back into the league. Additionally, once re-instated Voynov would have to find a club willing to give him a second chance.
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
