Scandal discipline defended

Commissioner stands by $2M fine, other moves in Blackhawks sex assault

Commissioner Gary Bettman on Monday defended the NHL’S decisions and discipline meted out following an investigation into the Chicago Blackhawks’ handling of sexual assault allegations in 2010.

Bettman called the organization’s $2 million fine significant and stood by decisions to let Joel Quenneville coach one more game and not discipline Winnipeg general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff based on his limited role in Chicago’s front office at the time. Quenneville

resigned as Florida Panthers coach after meeting with Bettman last week.

Bettman said he did not want anyone to think he was prejudging Quenneville, who was Chicago’s coach when allegations surfaced that video coach Brad Aldrich sexually assaulted prospect Kyle Beach 11 years ago.

“While it may have optically not been the best look, I was more concerned with the substance than the look,” he said.

Asked if Quenneville was given any kind of ultimatum, Bettman said, “Joel ultimately concluded that the most sensible course of action was for him to resign.”

Lightning 3, Capitals 2: Andrei Vasilevskiy made 31 saves, Anthony Cirelli had a goal and two assists, and Tampa Bay ended Washington’s eight-game seasonopening point streak with the one-goal win.

Blackhawks 5, Senators 1: Patrick Kane had three goals and an assist in his return from COVID-19, and Chicago earned its first win of the season after an 0-7-2 start.

Rangers: Norris Trophy-winning defenseman Adam Fox agreed to a reported seven-year, $66.5 million extension.

Canadiens: The NHL suspended forward Cedric Paquette for two games without pay for boarding Ducks forward Trevor Zegras.

Sharks: Forward Andrew Cogliano was removed from COVID-19 protocol and forward Kevin Labanc went on it for San Jose.