The National Hockey League (NHL) has confirmed that the New York Rangers had previously notified the league regarding allegations of sexual assault involving player Artemi Panarin. The inquiry was prompted after a report emerged detailing a financial settlement between Panarin and a former team employee.

Details of the Investigation

The Rangers engaged an independent legal firm to investigate the claims, which were fully communicated to the NHL, as stated in an official announcement. “We consider the matter closed,” the league mentioned in its statement.

According to a report by The Athletic, the allegations stem from an incident that reportedly took place during a road trip in December 2023. It is alleged that Panarin took the woman’s phone during a post-game gathering, suggesting she retrieve it from his hotel room. Upon her arrival, the situation escalated as he is accused of pinning her down on the bed, before she managed to escape with her phone.

Settlement and Nondisclosure Agreement

Approximately three months after the incident, the woman filed a report against Panarin. Subsequently, she departed from the Rangers in August after agreeing to a settlement, which included a nondisclosure clause with no admission of guilt from Panarin.

Speaking on behalf of Madison Square Garden Sports, a spokesperson stated, “The matter has been resolved.” The former employee echoed this sentiment in her remarks to The Athletic.

Panarin’s Position in the League

At 33 years old, Panarin remains a key player for the Rangers, leading the team in scoring this season. He is wrapping up the sixth year of a seven-year contract valued at $81.5 million, which he signed in 2019. This past week, he was honored as the team’s Most Valuable Player for the second consecutive season.