Golden Knights lose draft pick, Tortorella fined $100,000 for media violations

The Vegas Golden Knights advanced to the Western Conference Final against the Colorado Avalanche, but a league ruling on Friday took some of the shine off the moment.

The NHL stripped the team of a second-round pick in the 2026 draft and fined head coach John Tortorella $100,000 for violating media rules after Game 6 of their second-round series against the Anaheim Ducks.

Tortorella did not take part in the post-series handshake line and refused to speak with reporters after the 5-1 win. Only players Brett Howden and Mitch Marner appeared at the podium.

The league said the penalties followed earlier warnings to the club about compliance with media regulations. The team can appeal the decision.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported that Tortorella was upset over the one-game suspension of defenseman Brayden McNabb, who sat out Game 6 after a controversial hit on Anaheim forward Ryan Poehling in Game 5.

Vegas declined to comment on the penalties. Tortorella has not explained his actions, though he is expected to speak before the conference final begins.