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Gary Bettman Addresses Rumors of a Second Toronto Area Franchise

Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X June 6, 2023
5 2 minutes read

Gary Bettman, the commissioner of the NHL, is not a very liked figure among NHL fans, especially those from Canada.

The NHL made over $6 billion in revenue this season, according to recent boasts from Bettman, but the Arizona Coyotes still haven’t found a suitable home.

Bettman had hoped to keep the coyotes in the desert, but there have been indications that they are being moved.

This raised the question of why not either relocate the Coyotes to Toronto or add a second team to the GTA in a manner similar to how the New York Rangers and New York Islanders coexist.

The notion of either the Coyotes moving to the GTA or potentially a second franchise joining was directly posed to Bettman.

Which Bettman promptly and predictably shut down faster than Phil Kessel could consume a hotdog.

“The discussion takes place in your world more than it does in ours. It’s a matter of speculation, it’s a matter of putting things out there, but in terms of the interest, the reality, what’s involved. It’s not something that seems to be resonating the way other markets and other ownership requests are resonating for whatever reason or reasons”

– Bettman on the idea of a second GTA-based team

We all understand that there won’t be any franchises coming to Canada as long as Bettman remains the NHL Commissioner. In fact, if Bettman had his way, he regrettably would likely relocate some teams outside of Canada.

Igor Burdetskiy

Igor Burdetskiy

Founder, Editor-in-Chief, & CEO at Hooked on Hockey Magazine
I grew up playing Ball and Roller Hockey day and night somewhat religiously throughout elementary and middle school. The two don't compare though when I lace up the skates and hit the ice. I live and breathe hockey beyond the perspective of "it's just a game" and I will gladly talk hockey for hours with anyone. Hockey is more than just a lifestyle, it's a culture of passionate people who make memories every time the puck is dropped. Hockey has not only helped me get through some of the hardest times in life but has created some of the best memories to date. Want to talk hockey with me? Shoot me an email: iburdetskiy@hookedonhockey.com and let's talk some hockey!
Igor Burdetskiy
Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X June 6, 2023
5 2 minutes read
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