Slava Voynov is hoping to make a return to the NHL.
According to Dennis Bernstein of the Fourth Period, Bill Daly has revealed Voynov has applied for reinstatement to the league. Daly said the league is doing an investigation before any announcement.
BREAKING – Slava Voynov has applied for NHL reinstatement per Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly
"We’re in process of an intense factual investigation. I’m not in a position to give timeline. When investigation is done, Commissioner will deal with his application for reinstatement."
— Dennis Bernstein (@DennisTFP) November 1, 2018
Voynov had his contract terminated by the Los Angeles Kings after the defenseman was arrested on misdemeanor domestic violence charges. Voynov was alleged to have kicked, punched and cut his wife in a domestic disturbance. Voynov was indefinitely suspended by the league and plead no content. In September of 2015, he was taken in U.S. immigration custody before flying back to Russia and continuing his hockey career in the KHL. Voynov’s conviction was dismissed in July 2018.
The NHL would be foolish to allow Voynov to be reinstated. He’s the type of person you don’t want ever to set foot on NHL ice again. There’s a reason his contract was terminated. His domestic abuse history should automatically disqualify him from a return. Teams should collectively take a stand against bringing him back stateside.
Sadly, some team will surely see Voynov’s hockey skill and overlook his past and make him an offer to return. It’d be a massive mistake. Hopefully, Daly does a proper investigation and makes the right decision.
