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Gary Bettman is about to make a multi-million dollar mistake after a partnership with a struggling business
Photo credit: NHL
Gary Bettman, the NHL commissioner since 1993, has been no stranger to controversy.
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:
"We are appreciative of the ongoing collaboration and long-term partnerships with the NBA and NHL. These new agreements covering NBA and NHL linear and direct-to-consumer rights are another major milestone, continuing Diamond's momentum toward emergence, which will enable us to provide value for our NBA and NHL partners and continue to serve dedicated local fans."
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.
Previously on Red Wings Insider
| POLL | ||
AOUT 26 | 43 ANSWERS Gary Bettman is about to make a multi-million dollar mistake after a partnership with a struggling business Should the NHL change the commissioner, Gary Bettman, for another one? | ||
| Yes | 40 | 93 % |
| No | 3 | 7 % |
| List of polls | ||