Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

NHL Announces Punishment for Ducks RW Frank Vatrano

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ankit Kumar | Last updated Dec 20, 2025 3:30 PM ET

The NHL announced discipline for Frank Vatrano after Friday’s game against the Dallas Stars. The league fined Vatrano $5,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct. That amount is the maximum allowed under the CBA.

The fine came from an incident involving Dallas forward Jason Robertson. The altercation took place at 5:01 in the third period.

Vatrano, the Anaheim Ducks forward, received multiple penalties during the sequence. Officials assessed a minor for unsportsmanlike conduct, two minors for roughing, and a 10-minute misconduct. The penalties reflected the escalation during a lopsided game.

The NHL Department of Player Safety shared the ruling on X.

"Anaheim’s Frank Vatrano has been fined $5,000, the maximum allowable under the CBA, for unsportsmanlike conduct for his actions against Dallas’ Jason Robertson."

Anaheim’s Frank Vatrano has been fined $5,000, the maximum allowable under the CBA, for unsportsmanlike conduct for his actions against Dallas’ Jason Robertson.
— NHL Player Safety (@NHLPlayerSafety) December 20, 2025

The Stars dominated the contest and beat the Anaheim Ducks 8-3. Robertson scored two goals and added one assist. His performance pushed his season total to 22 goals. It helped Dallas earn its third straight win.

The game was decided early. Dallas scored five times in the first period and never slowed down. Anaheim struggled in net and on defense. The loss marked the Ducks’ fourth defeat in five games.

Frustration is setting in for the Ducks

Frank Vatrano gets two minor penalties for roughing and unsportsmanlike conduct, as well as a 10-minute misconduct for going after Jason Robertson. pic.twitter.com/sTXDr9Sydu
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) December 20, 2025

Vatrano’s season has been quiet by his standards. He has five points in 35 games. His ice time has dropped to just over 12 minutes per game. Penalties have also affected his rhythm.

Despite the loss, Anaheim remains strong overall. The Ducks are 20-13-2 and sit near the top of the Pacific Division. Team depth and defense have carried them.

Meanwhile, Dallas continues to surge. The Stars are among the league’s top teams. Balanced scoring and strong road play remain their key strengths.

The fine closes the matter for Vatrano. No suspension was issued.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: