Gary Bettman, the NHL's commissioner, is under scrutiny as media rights issues create concerns for the league's future.
Prominent player agent Allan Walsh emphasized the impact of the NHL's 7-year media rights deal with ESPN. During this deal, ESPN's subscriber count dropped from 80 million to 45 million. Disney, ESPN's parent company, is actively seeking a "strategic partner" for the network. This downturn raises questions about viewer losses during Bettman's tenure.
As the NHL navigates media-related challenges and financial uncertainties, Gary Bettman's leadership abilities come into focus. The league must address these issues affecting its media presence and financial health.