League sources confirmed to Sun Media the consequences over Marian Hossa's contract with the Blackhawks could be even stiffer than originally reported if the NHL decides the 12-year, $62.8-million deal circumvents the collective bargaining agreement and salary cap.
A league source confirmed Sunday the ultimate punishment would be voiding the contract.
League officials are concerned with the structure of the deal. Hossa's cap hit is $5.3 million per season, but he'll make $7.9 million a season before falling to $4 million in 2016-17. In the final four years, he's scheduled to make a total of just $3.5 million.
Since killing the deal at this point is unlikely, the more likely punishment the Hawks will receive if they are found in violation would be up to $5 million in fines, loss of draft picks and/or suspension of club personnel.
