In part one of a two-part series in reaction to former Anaheim Ducks player Nick Boynton’s recent flaming of the league, we’ll look at NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and his legacy.
Fans love to boo NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. But he’s actually been great for the growth of the league, especially in non-traditional hockey markets like Anaheim. But there’s an area where the boos are completely justified.
A couple of weeks ago, former Anaheim Duck defenseman Nick Boynton wrote a lengthy article in The Players’ Tribune. In it, he spoke pretty bluntly about what really happens in the NHL.
Coaches tell players to get on the ice and fight…check. Players spend their time worrying about what will happen to them…oh yeah. Players try to hurt each other…yep. Former players suffer greatly after their careers are over…you know it.
After the deaths, DEATHS, of many of his friends, Boynton is speaking out about head injuries. It doesn’t hurt that he has suffered himself since he joined the league in 2000, and he doesn’t feel like he has anything left to lose. He decided to open up to the world.
After reading Boynton’s article, one must wonder about Gary Bettman. What responsibility does he have? Is he culpable for the injuries? Why is he in full denial that hockey causes serious long-term problems? And what should his legacy be?