Gary Bettman disrespects Auston Matthews with latest announcement

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Hunter Bowman
May 7, 2024 (3:00 PM)

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Today, Gary Bettman and the NHL revealed the finalists for the Hart Trophy, and to many fans surprise, Maple Leafs' standout Auston Matthews didn't make the cut.

The NHL has been unveiling their award finalists over the past few days, and today, it was the Hart Trophy's turn. The nominees for this season are Nikita Kucherov, Nathan MacKinnon, and Connor McDavid.

2024 Hart Trophy finalists, as voted by @ThePHWA: Nikita Kucherov (TBL), Nathan MacKinnon (COL) and Connor McDavid (EDM).

The announcement stirred up some controversy, with many fans questioning why Matthews and Artemi Panarin weren't included.

These three all had Hart-worthy campaigns, but it's interesting to see Auston Matthews and his 69 goals + Selke nomination NOT make the finalist list.

Knew this was happening. All 3 are deserving and I feel like in most years, Panarin would've been a finalist, but I was watching a clip with Mike Rupp and Mike Kelly talking about their MVP votes and they're right, so many had great seasons. Auston Matthews had a case too. #NYR

Matthews still has a chance to clinch an MVP award with the Ted Lindsay Award, which is voted on by current NHL players.

I'll be curious to see where Auston Matthews ends up on the Ted Lindsay vote (done by the players). I spoke with a few of the #NHLJets who had him No. 1.

They all said the same thing�scoring 69 goals in this era of the league is insane.

Regardless, Matthews' 69-goal season will be remembered as one of the best in NHL history. As his career progresses, he's likely to gather more accolades, but it would be a shame if his remarkable 2023-24 season isn't properly recognized.

Source: Houseofhockey
Auston Matthews gets disrespected by Gary Bettman and the NHL