The commissioner of the Ontario Hockey League brought down the hammer on the Flint Firebirds today, finding that owner Rolf Nilsen “has on several occasions violated an agreement he signed ... between himself and the OHL.” While commissioner David Branch’s statement didn’t lay out Nilsen’s violations, it did lay out his punishment, and it is severe: In view of these findings, in accordance with the OHL Constitution, I have ordered that: Rolf Nilsen be suspended by the OHL from being involved directly or indirectly with hockey operations of the Flint Firebirds for five (5) years effective immediately; The Flint Firebirds forfeit a first round draft pick in the 2016 OHL Priority Selection (third pick overall); A fine be paid by Rolf Nilsen to the League in the amount of Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000.00); If it is determined by the League that Rolf Nilsen has violated this Order, the League may order Rolf Nilsen to sell one hundred percent (100%) of the ownership interest of the Flint Firebirds. Basically, the OHL levied all possible punishments short of forcing Nilsen to sell the team - See more at: http://deadspin.com/ohl-suspends-owner-of-the-flint-firebirds-for-five-year-1769499948
