Anaheim Ducks & GM Pat Verbeek fined by the NHL for breach of conduct

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Hunter Bowman
April 20, 2024 (7:58 PM)

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The Anaheim Ducks struggles at the bottom of the NHL standings have persisted over the last few years, with no clear end in sight. Despite acquiring numerous prospects through drafts and trades, the Ducks have been unable to climb out of the Western Conference's lower ranks.

General Manager Pat Verbeek's latest move, however, has crossed a line previously unseen in the NHL.

In a rare and controversial decision, the NHL has fined the Ducks and General Manager Pat Verbeek $50,000 for a breach of conduct. According to the World Hockey Report on X, the fine was levied due to Verbeek's attempt to dictate where players should reside during the offseason.

Pat Verbeek seems like a ball of fun. Trying to force players to move to Florida for the offseason is crazy.

Specifically, Verbeek tried to mandate that all team players relocate to Florida to work with a trainer he endorses�a move that has raised eyebrows league-wide.

This directive from Verbeek has not been well received, as it adds unnecessary pressure on the players. Furthermore, alongside the fine, the NHL issued a memo to remind all teams and players that they cannot be compelled to use 'wearable technology' during their time off.

This episode underscores a broader issue within the Ducks organization, suggesting that their inability to improve their standing in the Western Conference may stem from questionable decisions at the management level rather than the players' performance on the ice. Forcing players to live in a specific location during the offseason is not the way to foster team unity or commitment.

Source: Bladeofsteel
Anaheim Ducks fined by the NHL for breaching conduct policy