In a stunning and unprecedented move, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has both imposed and subsequently withdrawn the highest fine in league history against four NHL referees following major officiating errors in last night’s Vancouver Canucks vs. Florida Panthers game.
The game, held at Rogers Arena, was marred by a series of highly questionable non-calls and overturned goals that sparked outrage from players, coaches, fans, and analysts. The controversy reached a boiling point late in the third period when two pivotal penalties against the Canucks were missed, followed by what many believe was an illegitimate game-winning goal by Florida that stood after a brief video review.
Shortly after the game, the NHL launched an internal review into the officiating crew’s performance, citing “a breakdown in protocol and rule application.”
This morning, Bettman announced a record-setting fine of $250,000 per official—totaling $1 million—against the four referees involved, stating:
“The integrity of the game is paramount. What occurred last night fell far below the standard expected of NHL officials.”
However, in a dramatic reversal just hours later, the NHL issued a follow-up statement retracting the fine after discussions with the NHL Officials Association (NHLOA) and a deeper review of the officiating mechanics and league accountability systems.
“While significant errors occurred, we recognize that systemic issues within game oversight contributed to these outcomes. Therefore, we will be addressing this matter internally through retraining and procedural updates, rather than financial penalties,” said Bettman in a second statement.
The four referees, whose names have not yet been released publicly, will reportedly be removed from officiating duties for an indefinite period as the league reviews its officiating standards.
Players from both teams have reacted strongly. Canucks captain Elias Pettersson called the officiating “a disgrace,” while Panthers coach Paul Maurice said he understood the controversy but believed the calls “evened out.”
The NHL has announced that a press conference will be held tomorrow morning in New York to further address the incident and outline plans to improve officiating transparency and accountability moving forward.
