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The fine stems from a radio interview when Canucks general
manager Jim Benning stated his desire to pursue Tampa Bay
Lightning star forward Steven Stamkos in free agency and
Montreal Canadiens All-Star defenseman P.K. Subban via trade.
Stamkos is under contract with the Lightning until Friday, and
the window to talk to perspective free agents was not open at
the time of the interview. Subban has been rumored to be
available for the right price before his no-trade clause kicks
in this summer.
"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," NHL deputy commissioner Bill
Daly said. "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 Canucks released the following statement from Benning via
twitter after the league's announcement.
"Last week I was trying to be candid with our fans and media
about out plans to improve our team but I said too much about
players on other teams. I have spoken personally to the NHL and
the general managers involved to apologize and I accept the
league's ruling."
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