In a shocking turn of events, Artemi Panarin, the beloved star of the New York Rangers, has been accused of sexual assault by a former team employee. This revelation comes from a recent report by The Athletic, shedding light on a troubling incident from December 2023.

According to sources, the controversy sparked when Panarin allegedly approached the employee after a postgame gathering, inviting her to his hotel room. Reports claim that after taking her phone, he made an aggressive advance before she managed to push him away and exit the room.

Settlement and Non-Disclosure Agreement Aired Out

In what seems to be an effort to quell the situation, both Panarin and Madison Square Garden Company, the team’s parent organization, reached a financial settlement with the accuser in August. As part of this deal, she signed a non-disclosure agreement, alongside a clause stating no admission of wrongdoing.

Delayed Reporting Raises Eyebrows

Interestingly, the alleged incident was not reported to law enforcement immediately. The employee only alerted the team months later during an investigation into a separate issue involving her administering ‘anti-anxiety’ medication to a player during a flight. This incident had already prompted changes in team policy for social media staff traveling with the team.

Changes in Team Policy Following Incident

In light of these events, the Rangers' management took significant steps to tighten protocols regarding employee interactions with players and coaches. A memo was distributed, signed by top executives including Rangers president Chris Drury, stipulating strict rules: employees could no longer stay in the same hotels, travel on team flights or buses, and must limit interactions with players to professional requirements only.

The memo warned that violating these guidelines could lead to serious consequences, including termination.

Employee's Departure Remains a Mystery

As the controversy unfolds, the former employee was queried about her exit from the organization, but she remained tight-lipped, citing legal constraints.

Panarin's Future in Question

Artemi Panarin, who has consistently been a top scorer for the Rangers, is entering the final year of his lucrative seven-year, $81.5 million contract. A spokesperson for MSG Sports has commented on the ordeal, claiming, "The matter has been resolved," but the lingering questions and implications for Panarin's career remain.

Stay tuned as this unfolding drama in the world of sports raises critical questions about ethics and accountability within professional teams!