Vegas Golden Knights take severe action against reporter for asking Hockey Canada sexual assault case-related question

The Vegas Golden Knights took action against The Athletic reporter Mark Lazerus after he asked about the 2018 Hockey Canada sexual assault case.

In July, Michael McLeod, Carter Hart, Alex Formenton, Cal Foote and Dillon Dube were acquitted in the case. The NHL reinstated the group, making them eligible to sign contracts starting Oct. 15, although they remain suspended until Dec. 1.

With McLeod and Hart rumored to be drawing interest from both Vegas and Carolina, The Athletic questioned the two teams about the potential signings.

Lazerus reported that Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and addressed questions. However, the Golden Knights refused to make head coach Bruce Cassidy available for a one-on-one interview, according to Lazerus. He reported that before Cassidy’s press conference began, a team spokesperson asked him to leave the practice facility.

"The Golden Knights asked me to leave their practice facility and revoked my credential because I asked one of their players about the Hockey Canada 5. Their sensitivity underscores the dicey nature of the decision VGK and Carolina are facing," Lazerus wrote on X.

According to Lazerus, the Knights revoked his credentials for asking defenseman Noah Hanifin questions about the situation during routine locker-room media availability. His access to that night’s preseason game was also rescinded.

Lazerus said Hanifin himself showed no frustration and stated that any new teammate would be welcomed.

Vegas defenseman Noah Hanifin on playing with acquitted Hockey Canada players

Golden Knights defenseman Noah Hanifin shared his perspective on playing alongside the acquitted Hockey Canada players. Hanifin said that a locker room is built on brotherhood and family.

“You’re trying to take care of each other, no matter what’s going on, good or bad, off the ice.You want to make sure that when guys come to the rink, they feel they have the support and that they’re part of it. That’s a huge part of being on a team.” Hanifin said. (per The Athletic)

He also said that players have lives outside of hockey, including families, kids, and personal challenges, and that it’s important to ensure everyone is doing well mentally.