In a shocking turn of events that has sent ripples through the sports world, the National Hockey League (NHL) has officially terminated veteran referee Trevor Hanson following an internal investigation into a major sports betting scandal. The scandal reportedly links Hanson to a well-known professional poker player, raising serious questions about integrity and transparency within the league.
The NHL made the announcement early Saturday, stating that Hanson’s dismissal follows “a thorough review of conduct inconsistent with the league’s code of ethics and sports betting policies.” While the league has not disclosed full details of the investigation, sources close to the matter claim that Hanson had connections with a high-stakes poker player known for frequent gambling on professional sports, including NHL games.
Trevor Hanson, who has officiated over 600 NHL games since joining the league in 2013, was considered one of the more experienced referees on the ice. His abrupt dismissal is a stark reminder of the growing influence of sports betting in major leagues and the potential risks it poses to the credibility of the game.
The professional poker player allegedly at the center of the scandal is believed to have maintained close contact with Hanson, leading to speculation about insider information or game manipulation. Although no criminal charges have been filed as of yet, the NHL has confirmed it is cooperating with law enforcement and gaming regulatory bodies to determine the full extent of the misconduct.
This scandal comes at a time when the NHL and other major sports leagues are expanding partnerships with sports betting platforms. As such, the incident is expected to reignite debates about the oversight of league officials and the potential dangers of gambling-related corruption.
The NHL has assured fans that it is taking all necessary measures to preserve the integrity of the sport. An independent review of officiating practices and policies is expected in the coming weeks.