Report: NHL's Coyotes investigation to conclude before draft

The NHL's probe into whether the Arizona Coyotes conducted physical testing of draft-eligible players before the combine will be wrapped up before the next draft, regardless of when it's held.

"There's a timeline and there's a conclusion that's set for sorting through the allegations," TSN's Darren Dreger reported on Thursday's edition of "Insider Trading."

The Coyotes will reportedly take part in a hearing, and while the team has been cooperative lately, other clubs want Arizona to be punished if the league discovers violations.

The NHL made it known to teams earlier this week that a resolution would precede the upcoming draft.

"The National Hockey League, as part of a conference call Tuesday with the general managers, brought it up unsolicited," Dreger said. "No general manager asked for further detail, but the National Hockey League commissioner's office did tell the general managers that whenever the draft is - if the draft is in June (or) if it's later than that - this issue will be resolved, and if necessary, the Coyotes will be held accountable before the NHL draft."

Dreger reported in January that the NHL was investigating the club after multiple CHL teams stated they were contacted by Arizona. NHL rules prohibit physical testing of draft prospects prior to the combine. If found guilty, the Coyotes could face a $250,000 fine or more, per incident, at commissioner Gary Bettman's discretion.

The league is considering holding a virtual draft in June before the season resumes.

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