Gary Bettman became the first commissioner of the NHL in 1992, and he has been an amazing asset to the game. Over the years, Bettman has been criticized by fans for locking out workers, but he has been highly successful in expanding the NHL’s business enterprises. However, could the 73-year-old commissioner be retiring soon?
It appears that Bettman will remain as NHL commissioner for at least the next two seasons, despite speculation from general managers across the league, as Sportsnet’s Nick Kyprios reports. For now, Bateman is focusing on US broadcast rights and expansion into at least two more markets.
Houston, Atlanta, and New Orleans have been mentioned as possible expansion sites in the United States. Meanwhile, NHL fans are continuing to emphasize Quebec as a potential expansion location in Canada. More likely, the NHL will field two new franchises to maintain the best balance.
Once Bettman retires as NHL commissioner, there is already a good option to replace him. According to Kyprios’ report, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly is a strong contender to become his successor. Some of Bateman’s responsibilities have already been transferred to Daly over the years.
Bettman is the only NHL commissioner in the history of the game, as the league had five presidents prior to 1992. Despite the controversies of three league lockouts, his handling of CTE/concussion lawsuits, the 2021 Chicago Blackhawks scandal, and the unpopularity of playoff formats, he has done a lot for the NHL that far outweighs the negatives.
There will come a time when Bettman will step back from his role as NHL commissioner, but for now, he plans to stick around for at least two more seasons. It will be very interesting to see what he achieves in his final years.
READ MORE: New rumor reveals Gary Bettman’s stance on play-in tournament play-off
#report #Gary #Bettmans #future #NHL #commissioner #retirement #speculation
