Voynov suspended for 2019-20 season for unacceptable off-ice conduct

Former Los Angeles Kings defenseman Slava Voynov has been suspended for the entire 2019-20 regular season and playoffs for unacceptable off-ice conduct, commissioner Gary Bettman announced Tuesday.

Voynov applied for reinstatement to the NHL in November. He was arrested in 2014, and a police report said he punched, kicked, and choked his wife. He was convicted on a misdemeanor domestic abuse charge and sentenced to 90 days before having his contract terminated by the Kings.

"I have determined that Player Slava Voynov engaged in acts of domestic violence directed at his wife," Bettman said. "Today's ruling, while tailored to the specific facts of this case and the individuals involved, is necessary and consistent with the NHL's strongly-held policy that it cannot and will not tolerate this and similar types of conduct, particularly as directed at a spouse, domestic partner, or family member."

Voynov's eligibility to play in the NHL will be restored no later than July 1, 2020, assuming good behavior.

The 29-year-old has spent the last three seasons in his native Russia, suiting up for SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL. Voynov played 190 games with the Kings from 2012-14.

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