Tampa Bay Lightning suspends ex-Avalanche defenseman Ian Cole. Here's why

As part of an investigation by the NHL, the Lightning announced Sunday night that they would suspend defenseman Ian Cole until more details are gathered. This is the latest off-ice scandal to rock hockey and question its culture.

In a statement from the player's agent, he completely denied the allegations and said he was working with the league, team and legal department. The Associated Press reported that the league launched an investigation Sunday morning. The league was unaware of such claims until they were posted on social media.

The poster accused Cole of emotional and sexual abuse and said the NHL and its players must be held accountable for creating a misogynistic and predatory environment. The player's manager was unavailable for further comments on the matter.


The accusations say of a time when the player had just made the team. The defenseman started playing almost twelve years ago. The time frame provided by the accuser doesn't set right. He was not playing when the person claimed he sexually abused and groomed her.



The investigation comes as the NHL investigates allegations made by a woman who said she was sexually assaulted by eight members of Canada's world junior team at a gala in 2018. A lawsuit filed by the woman against Hockey Canada was settled earlier this year. The NHL currently has several players from that team.

Commissioner Gary Bettman said hockey didn't have a culture problem in July.

FAQs:

1. Who is Ian Cole?
   He is the NHL defenseman and former player of the Avalanche.
2. Which team was Ian Cole playing for?
   Tampa Bay Lightning.