NHL beginning process to replace Gary Bettman as Commissioner
Moments ago, NHL insiders broke the news that Gary Bettman will soon be retiring, and the league is beginning the process of looking for his successor.
Oilers media has been calling for the resignation of Gary Bettman recently for his role in the NHL's inconsistent officiating.
Gary Bettman nearing retirement, NHL looking for replacement
According to a new report from Michael Russo and Chris Johnston in the Athletic, Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leopold confirmed the NHL is looking at Bettman's replacement for when he leaves in a few years.
Now we're going to transition to somebody else, and that should make us all a little concerned that we have to be certain we get the right person. It's a concern that I have that, 'How are we going to get anybody as good as Gary?' The answer is we're not.
- Craig Leopold, Minnesota Wild
Leopold added that the NHL owners have begun the process of looking at candidates to replace Bettman. To this point, Bettman himself has not released any statement confirming his retirement.
Gary Bettman is now 72 years old, and has been the commissioner of the NHL since the 1993 season. It's time for him to move on to the next chapter of his life, and for the NHL to get a fresh voice.
The NHL's current collective bargaining agreement expires after the 2025-26 season, and negotiations are already beginning for the next deal between the players and the owners. However, there are a few contentious issues that could always lead to another lockout.
It makes sense he would be replaced after the NHL's next CBA, but also that the next commissioner would be involved in the process. A solid candidate for commissioner should emerge soon if that's the case.
It will truly be the end of an era if this is the end of Gary Bettman in the near future. Many NHL fans won't be too disappointed to see him go.
