Gary Bettman forces the NHL on the edge of a multi-million dollar catastrophe

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Gabriel Sami
August 25, 2024 (4:20 PM)

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Gary Bettman's latest deal could be another costly mistake for the NHL, as the company's financial troubles raise concerns about its future.

Gary Bettman, NHL commissioner since 1993, is no stranger to controversies, and his latest move might add to his list of missteps. Bettman has inked a deal with Diamond Sports Group (DSG), which holds broadcasting rights for nine NHL teams.

The agreement is set for the 2024-25 season, but it comes at a time when DSG is struggling financially. The company has been under bankruptcy protection since March 2023, casting doubt on its ability to fulfill its contractual obligations.

The teams covered by this deal 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. This arrangement guarantees that DSG will broadcast games for these teams throughout the upcoming season, irrespective of the company's financial situation or potential bankruptcy on September 3rd.

Evan Drellich discussed the implications of this deal in a recent article for The Athletic:

Regardless of whether it successfully emerges from bankruptcy, Diamond Sports Group, which broadcasts the Bally-branded regional sports networks, is now promising it will operate through the 2024-25 NBA and NHL seasons.

David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, highlighted the significance of this deal in a press release:

We are appreciative of the ongoing collaboration and long-term partnerships with the NBA and NHL, David Preschlack, Diamond's CEO, said in a statement. These new agreements that cover NBA and NHL linear and (direct-to-consumer) rights are another major milestone and continue Diamond's momentum toward emergence, which will enable us to provide value for our NBA and NHL partners and continue to serve dedicated local NBA, NHL, and MLB fans [...]

The NHL's gamble on DSG could be a pivotal moment for Bettman's tenure. If the deal fails, it might be the final blow that impacts his future in the commissioner's chair. For now, fans and stakeholders alike will be watching closely to see if this latest venture will pay off or backfire spectacularly.

Source The Athletic:
Diamond Sports drops Mavericks, but promises to broadcast 2024-25 NBA, NHL seasons}»

Source: House of Hockey
Commissioner Gary Bettman makes another costly mistake that could hurt the NHL

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