Gary Bettman's latest blunder perhaps the worst of his career as NHL commissioner

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Mike Armenti
July 22, 2023 (9:27)

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Most are of the mindset that NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman is doing more harm than good as the league's commissioner. Yes, the NHL has seen growth over the last number of years, but the rate at which the league has grown pales in comparison to the other major sports leagues.

Not only has Bettman imposed a hard salary cap on the NHL, preventing teams from flexing their financial muscle and erasing the ability for organizations to build a dynasty, but he has also shown resistance to change in important areas relating to safety and even diversity. Now, Bettman has made another big blunder, which could be his most costly yet, and no, I'm not talking about the jersey deal with Fanatics.

According to Daily Faceoff, ESPN is working on a partnership deal with three major sports organizations in the NBA, NFL and MLB that would allow them to own equity in the company. This deal is an absolute gamechanger.

As you'll notice, the above list includes 3 of the 4 major sports leagues leaving out the NHL. Again, while the NHL has grown over the years, it hasn't grown at a rate anywhere near what the NBA, NFL and MLB have grown. This latest gaffe may see to it that the NHL remains in the dust of the NBA, NFL and MLB.

Bettman moving on, when it happens, will be the best thing to happen to the NHL. A new mind, chock full of fresh new ideas and a better capacity to handle big decisions will finally push the NHL to that next level. When that happens, however, is the big question.