The NHL has imposed a fine on the Dallas Stars for breaching collective bargaining agreement (CBA) regulations by conducting an optional practice during the league's designated holiday break. According to a league source, the rules established by the NHL and NHL Players' Association dictate that all teams must refrain from activities from December 24 to December 26. Despite this, Stars coach Peter DeBoer disclosed that several players were present at the rink on December 23, prompting an investigation by the NHL.
DeBoer remarked on Friday, before a matchup against the Minnesota Wild, that young players were eager to attend the optional practice. This statement led to the NHL's inquiry, which the Stars reportedly cooperated with fully. Prior to the investigation, the league had sent a memo reminding teams of the holiday regulations, underscoring that no travel or ice time is permitted during this period.
This incident follows a pattern of previous infractions, as evidenced by the Toronto Maple Leafs being fined $100,000 in 2022 for a similar violation, and the Philadelphia Flyers facing penalties in 2015. The NHL views such breaches as potentially giving teams an unfair competitive edge, especially for those playing on December 27, who are expected to travel on the day of the game. Fines collected are generally directed to the NHL Foundation. As of Sunday afternoon, it was uncertain whether the Stars had been informed of the fine, with the team scheduled to face the Chicago Blackhawks later that evening.
