Bowman has to avoid question on second victim in Blackhawks scandal

Bowman was banned from the NHL due to his inaction when Kyle Beach reported abuse from assistant coach Brad Aldrich. There was also a second victim when Aldrich continued to work with the Blackhawks, and a third who was a minor. The second player signed a non-disclosure agreement as part of a settled lawsuit. The victim can not speak up unless the Blackhawks release him from the NDA.

Both Bowman and Jeff Jackson were asked if they had spoken to Kyle Beach and the second victim before the hiring was made official. Stan Bowman confirmed he has spoken to Kyle Beach, but both Oilers executives did not speak to the second victim, nor do they know who they are. It feels brutal this second victim is powerless in his ability to speak on the matter, due to a the very questionable NDA.

President Jeff Jackson recognized that fans would have serious concerns about the hiring of Bowman with this history, but defended him by reiterating that Bowman's recent education in the faults of hockey culture will actually improve the Oilers front office. There could be some merit to that claim, but the public has rightfully lost trust in Bowman right now. In response, Bowman is asking fans to judge him on the actions he will take with the team.

On the side of building the roster, Bowman didn't say anything that contradicted what the Oilers front office has previously said. The number one priority is re-signing Leon Draisaitl, and then building a complete supporting cast to allow this core to compete for several Stanley Cups. It all sounds fine, but Stan Bowman may be the least deserving GM to win multiple Cups if the Oilers succeed in the next few years.