Bloomberg Talks NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman Talks NHL Playoffs
Jun 6, 2025
Gary Bettman, the first and longest-serving Commissioner of the NHL, dives into the Stanley Cup Finals, spotlighting the fierce competition between the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers. He discusses the unique factors contributing to Florida's hockey success beyond tax advantages. Bettman also explores potential NHL expansion into cities like Houston and the importance of global competition, highlighting upcoming tournaments and women's hockey development. Lastly, he analyzes a noticeable drop in playoff viewership, reflecting on the changing dynamics of fan engagement.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Canadian Fans' Passion Amid Politics
- Canadian fans are passionate but political tensions have mostly simmered down during the playoffs.
- Fans focus on rooting for their team despite some initial anthem booing linked to U.S.-Canada relations.
Currency Impact on Canadian Teams
- The Canadian dollar's strength impacts player salaries paid in U.S. dollars.
- The league stays adaptable to currency fluctuations affecting Canadian teams.
Florida Teams' Success Explained
- Florida teams' success isn't primarily due to state tax benefits.
- Players choose teams based on lifestyle, organization, and family reasons, not just taxes.