Two Chicago Blackhawks stars reportedly under investigation by the NHL
32 Thoughts podcaster and Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that several NHL contracts may be under investigation due to tampering which has led the microscope two Blackhawks Tyler bertuzzi and captain Nick Foligno.
The story began just before the opening of unrestricted free agency on July 1st. It was revealed by Bertuzzi that he had little or no interest in signing with the Blackhawks until his friend Nick Foligno who played with Bertuzzi in Boston called him and convinced him to come to the Windy City.
Many feel throughout the NHL that this was a form of tampering as players are not allowed to speak to any other players until they are released from their contracts. Friedman explained that the NHL is now cracking down on these incidents and could likely see an investigation in two Bertuzzi, Foligno and potentially the Toronto Maple Leafs.
What it says to me is the league is looking to punish someone who is overly blatant or not careful (and let's face it, many teams are just as guilty as the agents). But, the league doesn't need a complaint to act. When Toronto signed John Tavares, it was investigated - and cleared - without the Islanders asking."
- Elliotte Friedman
It remains to be seen on what will happen if any happens towards both players. But with warnings like this it's certain that players will not be phoning their friends prior to the bargaining window being closed. It's likely players could face heavy fines along with their agents.
