The Vegas Golden Knights have paid a steep price for silence—losing a 2026 second-round draft pick and seeing head coach John Tortorella fined $100,000 after violating the NHL's Stanley Cup Playoffs media regulations.

The trouble started after Vegas clinched their second-round series against the Anaheim Ducks. Fans and reporters alike were eager to hear from Tortorella and his players about the big win. But the coach never showed up for the postgame media session. Instead, forwards Brett Howden and Mitch Marner spoke at the podium, while Jack Eichel gave a quick interview to TNT Sports. No other players were made available, and the locker room stayed closed to the media—a clear breach of league rules.

The NHL requires head coaches to speak with the media daily during the playoffs, including after morning skates, practices, and games. Teams must also provide a 30-minute window for reporters in the locker room. By skipping out, the Golden Knights left the league with little choice but to act.

On Thursday, the NHL announced the penalties, citing "flagrant violations of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs Media Regulations." The statement noted that previous warnings had been issued to the team about compliance. The Golden Knights have the option to appeal, but for now, the punishment stands.

In a brief response, the team acknowledged the announcement but offered no further comment—and didn't say whether they'd fight the decision. For a franchise that's made noise on the ice, this quiet off-ice misstep could echo for years to come.