He has overseen two player lockouts and several questionable decisions that have caused distress throughout the league.
His recent track record has added fuel to the fire, including the league's partnership with BioSteel, which recently went bankrupt, and a controversial ten-year deal with Fanatics to produce the official NHL jerseys.
However, Gary Bettman's latest move may have outdone these decisions: signing a contract with Diamond Sports Group, a company teetering on the brink of bankruptcy. Diamond Sports' future will be determined on September 3rd, yet Gary Bettman went ahead with the deal just a week before this critical date.
According to The Athletic, Diamond Sports Group, which operates the Bally-branded regional sports networks, has assured that it will continue to broadcast NBA and NHL games this season, regardless of the outcome of their bankruptcy proceedings. The company has promised to fulfill its obligations for both leagues through the 2024-25 seasons.
Diamond Sports' CEO, David Preschlack, expressed confidence in the partnership, stating:
The nine NHL teams set to be broadcast on Diamond Sports this season include the Anaheim Ducks, Carolina Hurricanes, Columbus Blue Jackets, Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota Wild, Nashville Predators, St. Louis Blues, and Tampa Bay Lightning.
Regardless of the outcome, Gary Bettman's decision to proceed with Diamond Sports further questions his judgment. After 31 years at the helm, the NHL may require a more level-headed commissioner.
Source: The Athletic
Diamond Sports drops Mavericks, but promises to broadcast 2024-25 NBA, NHL seasons
POLL | ||
Should the NHL change the commissioner, Gary Bettman, for another one? | ||
Yes | 40 | 93 % |
No | 3 | 7 % |
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