The Dallas Stars have been fined $100,000 by the NHL for violating the collective bargaining agreement by holding an optional practice session during the mandatory Christmas break. This session, which took place the day after Christmas, was attended by several young players, a move that contravenes league rules prohibiting any on-ice activity or travel on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and the 26th.
Head coach Pete DeBoer confirmed before a recent game that he was at the team's practice facility on December 27, the day after the break. He described the session as optional, noting that young players typically attend such sessions, emphasizing their eagerness to participate. However, DeBoer later admitted that he might have erred in allowing ice time during the holiday period, referring to it as “voluntary ice” rather than a formal practice.
In recent years, the NHL has imposed fines on other teams for similar infractions related to travel and practice schedules outside of permitted times. The fine imposed on the Stars will be directed to the NHL Foundation.
