The Dallas Stars organization has been slapped with a substantial $100,000 fine by the National Hockey League (NHL) for breaching the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) during the league's mandated Christmas break. The violation stemmed from an optional practice held on Thursday, December 26th, despite the CBA's stipulation of a mandatory three-day break commencing on December 24th.
Dallas Stars center Wyatt Johnston (#53) and left wing Jamie Benn (#14) celebrate Johnston's goal against the Chicago Blackhawks on December 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)
The NHL's official announcement stated that the team activity contravened Article 16.5(b) of the CBA, which explicitly prohibits teams from requesting player consent for practice during the designated holiday period, encompassing Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and December 26th, unless a game is scheduled for the 26th.
The Stars' holiday break followed a 3-2 victory against the Utah Hockey Club on December 23rd. Their subsequent game was slated for December 27th against the Minnesota Wild.
Dallas Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger (#29) and center Sam Steel (#18) defend against Minnesota Wild's Ryan Hartman (#38) on December 27, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
Prior to the game against the Wild, Stars coach Pete DeBoer acknowledged the optional practice, noting the attendance of younger players. However, in a later statement, he characterized the session as "voluntary ice" rather than a formal optional practice. Among the players present were Mavrik Bourque, Logan Stankoven, Wyatt Johnston, Lian Bichsel, Nils Lundkvist, and Thomas Harley.
Dallas Stars center Colin Blackwell (#15) celebrates a goal against the Utah Hockey Club on December 23, 2024. (AP Photo/Tyler Tate)
The CBA also prohibits travel for games during the mandated break. The $100,000 fine will be directed to the NHL Foundation.
