Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 3: Gary Bettman Joins the Show

Podcast Information:

• Title: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
• Hosts: Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
• Guest: Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner
• Episode: Hour 3: Gary Bettman Joins the Show
• Release Date: February 20, 2025

1. Introduction

In this episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg welcome Gary Bettman, the Commissioner of the National Hockey League (NHL). The conversation delves deep into the recent Four Nations tournament, the NHL's recovery post-lockout, potential expansion plans, and the league's future.

2. Current Sports Headlines

Alan Hahn kicks off the show by touching on recent sports news:

• Aaron Boone's Extension: "Aaron Boone getting a two-year extension with the Yankees to remain as manager at least through 2027" [00:38]
• NBA Updates: Recent game where the Hornets defeated LeBron James and Luka Dončić’s Lakers [00:45]

3. Discussion with Gary Bettman: The Four Nations Final

3.1 Reception of the Four Nations Tournament

Don LaGreca introduces Gary Bettman to discuss the Four Nations Final between the U.S. and Canada.

• Don (02:19): "Did you have any idea that the Four Nations tournament would be received the way it has?"

Gary Bettman responds enthusiastically:

• Bettman (02:19): "We haven't had international best-on-best hockey in a decade... It has been nothing short of incredible."

3.2 Future Plans for International Hockey

The conversation shifts to future international events:

• Bettman (03:05): "We're planning to go to the Olympics next year and then do a World Cup two years after that, establishing an international cycle."

3.3 Inclusion of Other Countries and Russia's Status

The discussion addresses the inclusion of additional countries and the status of Russia in international tournaments:

• Don (07:37): "Where could we possibly stand on including Russia and how you'll expand to welcome in other countries besides these four?"

Bettman (07:51): "Russia was voted ineligible by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). The International Olympic Committee (IOC) will decide on their participation for the next Olympics."

3.4 Impact on Players and Teams (Connor McAvoy’s Injury)

The topic of player safety and injuries arises, specifically mentioning Connor McAvoy:

• Alan (06:29): "Do you hear any pushback from some of the teams about the risk factors when coming back for the second half of the season?"

Bettman (07:01): Emphasizes the players' commitment: "Everybody knows when you play hockey, you're all in. Our teams understand this is good for the game."

3.5 Gary Bettman's Views on Competitive Balance and NHL Success

Bettman reflects on the NHL’s resilience and competitive balance post-lockout:

• Bettman (15:55): "What makes everything so compelling now is actually our competitive balance and the system we were able to achieve coming out of that year off... All of our teams can afford to compete, and all of our teams do."

He highlights the implementation of a strict salary cap and revenue sharing as pivotal factors in fostering a competitive league.

3.6 Expansion and Future Growth Opportunities

The possibility of NHL expansion into new markets is discussed, with a focus on New Orleans:

• Alan (17:34): "Gary reports that New Orleans is a possible expansion destination. Any comments on that?"

Bettman (17:41): "New Orleans has expressed interest. We consider factors like ownership, market, and arena before making decisions. While Vegas and Seattle have strengthened the league, New Orleans could be a viable addition if all pieces are in place."

4. Alexander Ovechkin's Impact

The conversation shifts to NHL superstar Alexander Ovechkin and his influence on the league:

• Peter Rosenberg (08:50): "Do you see Ovechkin as vital to the NHL's overall success?"

Bettman (09:12): "You can't quantify how great he's been... He's one of the all-time great players. We have an 'OV Countdown' on NHL platforms, and his presence significantly boosts our engagement."

Ovechkin's enduring legacy and ongoing contributions to the sport are underscored as key to the NHL's popularity.

5. Bettman's Tenure and NHL's Recovery Post-Lockout

Bettman reflects on his tenure since becoming NHL Commissioner in 1993 and the league's evolution:

• Don (15:04): "Isn't 1993 the year you first awarded the Stanley Cup?"

Bettman (15:04): "Yes, I awarded the cup to the Canadiens in Montreal in 1993."

He recounts the challenges faced during the NHL lockout and the subsequent rebirth of the league:

• Bettman (15:55): "We have the hardest, most fundamental salary cap... record ratings, record attendance, and record revenue followed the shutdown year, a testament to our fans."

6. Closing Remarks

As the episode winds down, the hosts and Bettman share final thoughts:

• Don (18:19): Expresses gratitude towards Bettman for his insights and the success of the Four Nations tournament.
• Bettman (18:44): Credits the collective effort of the NHL community and encourages listeners to prioritize the game.

Peter Rosenberg and Alan Hahn engage in light-hearted banter, emphasizing the excitement surrounding the upcoming NHL events and Bettman's significant contributions to the sport.

Notable Quotes:

• Don LaGreca [02:19]: "Did you have any idea that the Four Nations tournament would be received the way it has?"
• Gary Bettman [02:19]: "It has been nothing short of incredible... a big deal, but it's even bigger than we could have anticipated."
• Gary Bettman [07:51]: "We're planning to go to the Olympics next year and then do a World Cup two years after that..."
• Gary Bettman [15:55]: "All of our teams can afford to compete, and all of our teams do."
• Gary Bettman [17:41]: "New Orleans has expressed interest. We consider factors like ownership, market, and arena before making decisions."

Conclusion

This episode offers an in-depth look into the NHL's strategic initiatives under Gary Bettman's leadership, highlighting the successful execution of the Four Nations tournament, the league's resilience post-lockout, and future expansion possibilities. Bettman's insights provide a comprehensive understanding of the NHL's direction, emphasizing competitive balance, international collaboration, and sustained growth. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on how the NHL navigates challenges and capitalizes on opportunities to enhance the sport's global appeal.