Artemi Panarin, MSG Reach Confidential Deal After Sexual Misconduct Allegations…
In a significant development within the National Hockey League (NHL), Artemi Panarin, the star forward for the New York Rangers, and Madison Square Garden Sports (MSG), the team’s parent company, have reportedly reached a financial settlement with a former team employee who accused Panarin of sexual assault.
The alleged incident occurred in December 2023 during a road trip, following a post-game gathering at a hotel attended by approximately 12 players and staff members. According to reports, Panarin allegedly took the woman’s phone and coerced her into his hotel room, where he is said to have pinned her down on the bed.
The woman managed to push him off and leave the room. She did not report the incident to the police but informed the Rangers organization about it approximately three months later during a separate investigation. Subsequently, she left the organization in August 2024 after reaching a settlement with MSG and Panarin, which included a non-disclosure agreement and no admission of wrongdoing.
The NHL confirmed that an independent investigation was conducted, with the league being fully apprised of the findings. The league considers the matter closed, and it remains unclear whether Panarin faced any disciplinary action. Neither Panarin nor his representatives have publicly commented on the allegations.
The Rangers and MSG have stated that the matter has been resolved. Panarin, who was recently named the Rangers’ team MVP for the current season, continues to play for the team under his seven-year, $81.5 million contract signed in 2019.
This case has drawn attention to issues of workplace conduct and the handling of sexual misconduct allegations within professional sports organizations. The use of non-disclosure agreements in such settlements has been a topic of debate, raising questions about transparency and accountability in addressing allegations of this nature.
As the NHL and its teams navigate these complex situations, the balance between protecting individuals’ rights and maintaining the integrity of the sport remains a critical consideration.
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