June 11, 2025 – Nashville, Tennessee — The National Hockey organization has imposed a $25,000 fine and public censure on Nashville Predators right winger Mitchell Marner for a series of heated post-game statements that the organization deemed “detrimental to the integrity of the sport and its officiating.”
The comments were made following the Predators’ tight 3-2 overtime loss to the Calgary Flames on Monday night. In a furious media scrum, Marner, who was obviously angry after collecting a late third-period penalty, accused league officials of “targeting certain players” and claiming a “clear bias against small-market teams like Nashville.”
“This isn’t just one game. “It is a pattern,” Marner explained. “We don’t get the same calls as the well-known teams. I’ve played in both types of markets, and believe me, the whistles sound differently.”
The statements generated a media firestorm and elicited quick reactions from NHL pundits, fans, and team officials across the league. The league’s front office responded within 24 hours, alleging “a violation of the NHL’s policy on public criticism of officiating personnel and the competitive integrity of the game.”
In an official statement, NHL Senior Vice President of Player Safety George Parros said:
“While players are welcome to express their opinions, there is a clear distinction between honest reflection and undermining our referees’ credibility and the fairness of competition. Mr. Marner’s words crossed the line.”
The $25,000 punishment, while not the highest in league history, is remarkable since it is accompanied by a formal public reprimand, which the NHL rarely gives out. The reprimand, which will be recorded in Marner’s player file, may have an impact on future disciplinary reviews.
The Nashville Predators issued a statement in support of their star forward, saying:
“Mitchell Marner is an enthusiastic and dedicated competitor. While we appreciate the league’s decision, we also feel our athlete has the right to voice anger when he perceives standards are not being met regularly. We are pleased with how Mitchell portrays this franchise.”
Marner released a follow-up statement Tuesday evening:
“I let emotions get the best of me.” I appreciate both the officials and the game. My intention was never to offend anyone personally—only to highlight what I believe is an area that the league should investigate. I accept the league’s decision and will focus on helping our team win.”
This is the first time Marner has been penalized or disciplined in his NHL career, but his move from Toronto to Nashville last season put him in a different light—one in which his voice has become even more important among teammates and fans.
The dispute comes at a vital time for the Predators, who are fighting for a playoff position in the very competitive Western Conference. Marner, who has 22 goals and 41 assists this season, remains the Predators’ offensive and locker room leader.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Marner’s passion is palpable, his voice resonates—and the NHL is paying attention.