NHL hands out huge fine to Anaheim Ducks

The Anaheim Ducks have been given a massive fine by the NHL for trying to convince players to stay close to home in the offseason to take advantage of training.

The NHL has decided to punish the Anaheim Ducks with a huge fine following a suggestion from general manager Pat Verbeek that players stay in the Florida area over the summer to train with a specific coach. According to Sportnet's Elliotte Friedman, the details were made public in a memo to teams around the league.

"Anaheim was fined $50,000 last week for 'actively pressuring' (according to a memo) players to spend the summer training in Florida with Mike Barwis, who Verbeek strongly believes in."

"Last season, two teams were found in violation of off-season training rules. Vancouver was fined $50,000 for holding an on-ice 'skills camp,' although players later asked to have the option if they wished. The NHL and NHLPA made a one-year agreement to try, and that has now been extended into this summer."

So, essentially, if players want to train over the summer, they can. However, teams are not allowed to pressure or force players to do so. It stands to reason that Anaheim's fine was the result of someone tipping off the NHL Players' Association. Friedman said the union also sent a memo to teams recently regarding another rule.

"The union also reminded players they cannot be asked to use 'wearable technology' in the offseason. Had no idea that was prohibited."

The Ducks had a tough season following expectations that the team would at least make improvements over the previous season. That didn't pan out. Verbeek was likely trying to ensure he gets the best out of his players and that hockey is still a priority during time off. However, he still has to stay within the confines of the rules of the NHL's collective bargaining agreement.

Previously on Hockey OTB

Adam Henrique broke a crazy record in game 1

Doctor shares terrible prognostic on Brett Pesce's injury

Avalanche make last minute goalie recall after a humiliating game one

POLL
23 AVRIL \| 163 ANSWERS NHL hands out huge fine to Anaheim Ducks What do you think of the fine given to the Anaheim Ducks?
Rules are there for a reason	90	55.2 %
It seems childish	50	30.7 %
I'm not sure	23	14.1 %
LIST OF POLLS