CBS NEWS: Rangers’ Panarin, MSG Made Settlement Payments After Employee Sexual Assault Allegations
New York, NY – April 20, 2025 — New York Rangers forward Artemi Panarin and Madison Square Garden Sports (MSG) have reached financial settlements with a former team employee who accused Panarin of sexual assault, according to multiple reports. The alleged incident occurred in December 2023 during a post-game gathering at a team hotel.
The woman claimed that Panarin coerced her into his hotel room under false pretenses and then physically pinned her down. She managed to escape and did not report the incident to police but informed the Rangers three months later during a separate investigation. She subsequently left the organization in August 2024 following a settlement and the signing of a non-disclosure agreement that included no admission of wrongdoing. citeturn0news12
The NHL confirmed that the Rangers informed the league last year about an internal investigation into the allegations. The league stated that it considers the matter closed after an independent investigation was conducted. citeturn0news14
Panarin, who was named the Rangers’ team MVP for the 2024–25 season, has not publicly commented on the allegations. He is currently completing his sixth season with the Rangers under a seven-year, $81.5 million contract signed in 2019. citeturn0news14
The Rangers and MSG have not confirmed any disciplinary actions against Panarin. MSG instructed staff not to discuss the incident, and the NHL stated that an independent investigation had been conducted, concluding the matter was closed. citeturn0news14
The incident surfaced publicly prior to the Rangers’ final game of the season. Panarin was asked about the situation after the Rangers’ 4-0 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday night. He responded, “I’ll just talk about hockey,” when questioned by reporters. citeturn0news14
The NHL and the Rangers have not disclosed whether Panarin faced any internal disciplinary actions. The matter has raised questions about the league’s handling of off-ice incidents involving players.
The Rangers have declined further comment, referring to MSG’s statement when asked by reporters at the team’s morning skate before their season finale. citeturn0news14
As the investigation concluded, the NHL and the Rangers are facing scrutiny over their response to the allegations and the transparency of their internal processes.
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