Even though he had a big night ahead of him on Monday, National Hockey League (NHL) Commissioner Gary Bettman took a few moments throughout the day to express his feelings, and he had to talk a little about the reasons behind Canada’s 31-year Stanley Cup-less drought.

The person who was supposed to present the famous trophy to the champion team at center ice took part in an interview with the broadcaster TSN and the country’s unsuccessful streak came into discussion. Fans have often accused the NHL management, especially its big boss, of favoring American markets and their concessions to the detriment of the teams based north of the border.

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Bettman, however, seemed ready to answer, briefly recalling the events of his first year at the helm of the circuit, in 1993, when he presented the Silver Bowl at the Forum.

“First, we would like to mention that if the Panthers win, it will be a first for them, as they have never won the Cup before. In my first year as commissioner, the Montreal Canadiens won the Cup, and there are conspiracy theories – they are false – that say we had something to do with it. We are truly a multi-country league. We have clubs in the United States and Canada, and I don’t see a two-district system in this,” he said.

“I understand Canada’s passion for this sport. It’s extraordinary and incredible, but in the end it’s up to the teams to decide what happens on the ice and I don’t think their country of origin has anything to do with it.”

Exciting season and series

In addition, Bettman made no secret of his enthusiasm for the quality of the spectacle that will be offered in this 2023-2024 year, which is coming to an end in the NHL.

“People say it was the best season in terms of entertainment and competitiveness. It is difficult to predict the outcome of the playoff race and the first three rounds, especially the third, and then the final, which will be historic regardless of its outcome, he said. […] The two most beautiful words in sport, “Match Seven”, perfectly sums up this ending, which perfectly fits a sensational campaign.

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