Justin Schultz of the Edmonton Oilers takes an off balance shot while defended by Slava Voynov of the Los Angeles Kings in the first period at Staples Center on October 14, 2014 in Los AngelesGetty Images
The Los Angeles Kings have been fined $100,000 by the NHL after suspended defenceman Slava Voynov participated in a team workout Tuesday.
Voynov was charged with felony domestic violence two weeks ago. The Russian Olympian is barred from all team activities under the terms of his suspension, which began after his arrest Oct. 20.
Yet Voynov joined his teammates for their usual morning skate at the club's training complex Tuesday before the defending Stanley Cup champion Kings host the Boston Bruins. Voynov participated in drills with teammate Alec Martinez for the first time since his suspension.
Voynov is allowed to use the team's workout facilities by himself while suspended, and he has skated regularly after Kings practices under the supervision of an assistant coach.
Coach Darryl Sutter was vague about the reason Voynov practiced with the Kings on Tuesday, calling the workout an optional skate.
The NHL reacted swiftly to the strange decision by the Kings, who had firmly supported the league's indefinite suspension of Voynov.
"Such activity is in direct contravention of the terms of the suspension levied Oct. 20, which permit Mr. Voynov to use club facilities and work with team personnel but prohibit his participation in any team-related functions or activities," the NHL said in the statement announcing the Kings' fine.
Voynov will miss his 19th consecutive game when the Kings host the Bruins at Staples Center.
"This was clearly a mistake on our part and we accept full responsibility," the Kings said in a statement. "It is incumbent upon us to be more vigilant in managing this situation to ensure that Slava's allowable training activities always remain separate from the team."
The Kings backed the NHL's suspension of Voynov even when it forced them to play with only five defencemen last month due to salary cap constraints caused by his absence. The league granted salary-cap relief to the Kings late last month, allowing Voynov's $4.167-million cap hit to be replaced.
Voynov pleaded not guilty to the felony charge against him at his arraignment Monday. His preliminary hearing is Dec. 15.