Over the past few weeks and months, the National Hockey League and its broadcast partners have seemingly begun to focus on a more social product, leading to very mixed reviews from their fans. The changes were prompted by a series of scandals, including controversial comments from the legendary NHL broadcaster. Don Cherry and of course the now infamous firing of the former Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock which ultimately led to the dismissal of Bill Peters as head coach of the Calgary Flames.
Despite the fact that this direction from the NHL has attracted considerable criticism, the league seems determined, at least for the moment, to continue its efforts in this direction. This was clearly demonstrated Saturday night when, during intermission of the 2020 NHL All-Star Game, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman I sat down with the broadcaster Ron MacLean for a brief interview during which they discussed a number of topics. At the forefront of this discussion, however, was the aforementioned topic regarding the NHL’s recent change in philosophy.
Here is MacLean’s opening question:
MacLean: I don’t know how you feel, but I feel like I’m learning more than ever in this regard… I’d be interested to know, personally, what you’ve learned or thought while trying to tackle these ideas.
I have to admit that I had the distinct impression that these questions had been prepared in advance, because Bettman’s response sounded very much like a ready-made PR response.
Betman: What you’re really talking about is our diversity and inclusion efforts, which have always been a priority. It started over 20 years ago when I asked Willie O’Ree to join us at the league and work with the kids and really explain to the young people the values of our game, the inclusiveness, the leadership, the fitness, the teamwork, the discipline. This has always been a priority and it’s something we’ve been working on for years…and it’s an effort we’re going to continue to work very hard on. There have been a few incidents that have made me feel like we can do better.
Bettman addressed the coaching scandal that led to many of these changes, but he barely did so in praising the league’s efforts to make hockey safe for everyone.
Betman: Training and guidance for all of our leaders, especially our coaches, as we want everyone who plays our game at our level and all levels below to know that hockey presents a safe environment.
MacLean then asked Bettman if hockey was undergoing a transformation, but Bettman was quick to put that notion to rest entirely. I wonder if this was because Bettman is keenly aware of how negatively some members of his fan base view these changes.
Betman: No, I think it’s the same change that’s happening throughout society. Although we try to make a difference in people’s lives, the fact is that we are a reflection of society.
Do you agree with Bettman here? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
