Commissioner Gary Bettman has led the National Hockey League (NHL) for more than three decades. He is now preparing to hang up his skates. Bettman’s tenure has been marked by both remarkable success and controversy. He oversaw the expansion of the NHL from 24 to 32 teams, growing it into a multi-billion dollar enterprise. The league has enjoyed record attendance. It has seen historically strong television viewership under his watch. The league also recently signed a new uniform contract with Fanatics. However, Bettman has faced criticism for his handling of labor disputes. This includes the lockout that canceled the entire 2004-05 season. Critics also highlight his focus on expanding into non-traditional hockey markets at the expense of Canadian teams. Bettman has not set an official retirement date, but he has acknowledged his eventual departure. This acknowledgment has prompted the league’s executive committee to begin the search for his successor. This news has sparked widespread speculation about who will take the reins and lead the NHL into a new era. One key question is whether Bettman’s departure will allow the Quebec Nordiques to return. This move is something many fans have been clamoring for.  

This blog post examines the potential candidates vying to replace Bettman. It analyzes their backgrounds, strengths, and weaknesses. It also considers how they might address the challenges and opportunities facing the NHL.

Potential Candidates

Several names have emerged as potential successors to Bettman, each with their own unique qualifications and perspectives:

• Bill Daly: The current Deputy Commissioner, Daly, is widely considered a frontrunner. His extensive experience contributes to this reputation. He also has a close working relationship with Bettman.  
• Steve Yzerman: Yzerman is a legendary player and current General Manager of the Detroit Red Wings. His leadership skills are impressive. His hockey acumen makes him an intriguing candidate.  
• Brendan Shanahan: President and alternate governor of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Shanahan boasts a successful playing career. He also has experience in NHL management, including a stint as the league’s chief disciplinarian.
• Brian Burke: He is the former president of hockey operations for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Burke has a long and storied career in NHL management. He won the Stanley Cup as GM of the Anaheim Ducks. He currently serves as the executive director of the Professional Women’s Hockey League Players Association (PWHLPA).  
• Donald Fehr: Donald Fehr is a former executive director of the NHLPA. He has a deep understanding of the league’s labor relations. He also understands the players’ perspective.  
• Richard Scudamore: Scudamore is the former Executive Chairman of the English Premier League. He has a proven track record of success in sports management. He also has a wealth of experience in navigating the complexities of a global sports league.  
• Mark Lazarus: Chairman of NBC Broadcasting and Sports, Lazarus has extensive experience in sports media. He possesses a deep understanding of the NHL’s broadcast landscape.  

Background and Experience

Bill Daly

Daly has been Bettman’s right-hand man for nearly two decades, serving as the NHL’s Deputy Commissioner since 2005. Daly is an attorney by trade. He previously served as the NHL’s chief legal officer. He played a crucial role in shaping the league’s legal and business strategies. He has taken part in negotiating collective bargaining agreements. He also oversees broadcast and media rights deals. Additionally, he manages the league’s international initiatives. Daly has stated his belief that the league will want a younger person. This person should have fresh ideas to take over for Bettman. They may consider someone from outside the hockey world. This raises questions about his interest in the position. It also questions how his perspective might have changed since 2022. 

Steve Yzerman

Yzerman is a hockey icon. He captained the Detroit Red Wings for 20 seasons. Yzerman led them to three Stanley Cup championships. After retiring as a player, he took on the role of Vice President. He also became the Senior Advisor to the General Manager of the Red Wings. Then, he became the General Manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning. He returned to Detroit as GM in 2019. Yzerman has leadership skills. He has a deep understanding of the game. His experience in managing a successful NHL franchise makes him a strong contender. He is known for being a shrewd and patient leader. He prioritizes building a winning culture. He makes well-informed decisions.  

Brendan Shanahan

Shanahan is another NHL legend. He had a Hall of Fame playing career that includes three Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings. He transitioned to the NHL front office in 2009. Initially, he served as Vice President of Hockey and Business Development. Later, he became the league’s first Senior Vice President of Player Safety. In 2014, he took on his current role as President of the Toronto Maple Leafs. He also became an alternate governor. He oversees all hockey operations. Shanahan has been credited with modernizing the NHL’s style of play. He advocated for rule changes that emphasize skill and speed. These changes reduce clutching and grabbing.  

Brian Burke

Burke has a long and impressive track record in NHL management. He served as GM for the Hartford Whalers, Vancouver Canucks, Anaheim Ducks, and Toronto Maple Leafs. He won the Stanley Cup with the Ducks in 2007. He has held executive positions with the Calgary Flames and Pittsburgh Penguins. Burke is known for his strong personality, his emphasis on “truculence” in hockey, and his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. He is currently the first-ever executive director of the PWHLPA, a position he took on in 2023. Burke has a strong reputation for his commitment to improving hockey at all levels. He supports USA Hockey’s international efforts actively. He also advocates for diversity and inclusion in the sport.  

Donald Fehr

Fehr is a prominent figure in sports labor relations. He served as executive director of the MLB Players Association for 26 years. During his tenure with the MLBPA, he led the players through several labor disputes. This included the 1994-95 strike. The strike resulted in the cancellation of the World Series. He joined the NHLPA as an advisor in 2010 and was elected executive director later that year. Fehr has a deep understanding of collective bargaining. His experience in representing players’ interests could be valuable. These qualities are assets in the NHL commissioner role. However, his history of leading players through work stoppages might make some owners hesitant to support his candidacy. 

Richard Scudamore

Scudamore has a wealth of experience in managing a successful sports league. He served as Chief Executive and then as Executive Chairman of the English Premier League from 1999 to 2018. During his tenure, he oversaw significant revenue growth, negotiated lucrative broadcast deals that grew from £1.2 billion for the 2001–04 season to £5.134 billion for the 2013–16 season, and expanded the Premier League’s global reach. Scudamore’s expertise in a global sports league is valuable to the NHL. The NHL seeks to expand its international presence. He also has experience working with the UK government to support the growth of the sports economy.  

Mark Lazarus

Lazarus is a seasoned media executive with a deep understanding of the sports broadcasting landscape. As Chairman of NBC Broadcasting and Sports, he manages a portfolio of sports properties. This includes NBC Sports, NBC Olympics, NBCSN, Golf Channel, and the Olympic Channel. Lazarus has played a crucial role in securing major sports rights deals for NBC. These include the Olympics, NFL, NASCAR, and the Premier League. He has a strong background in sports management. He also has a strong background in production. He served as president of Turner Sports and Embassy Sports Cable Group. Lazarus’s expertise in media and broadcasting could be valuable to the NHL. The NHL seeks to enhance its media presence. It also aims to reach new audiences. 

Strengths and Weaknesses

To better understand the candidates’ qualifications, here’s a table summarizing their key strengths and weaknesses:

Candidate	Strengths	Weaknesses
Bill Daly	He has extensive NHL experience. He maintains strong relationships with stakeholders. He possesses a deep understanding of CBA and the legal landscape. He also has a proven track record in media deals and international initiatives.	May represent continuity over change, may lack charisma.
Steve Yzerman	Legendary player status, proven leadership and team-building skills, deep understanding of the game, strong track record as GM.	Limited league-wide experience, may not want to leave current role.
Brendan Shanahan	He has a successful playing career and NHL management experience. He possesses a deep understanding of player safety. He has strong leadership and consensus-building skills. He also has experience with NHLPA and labor relations.	May be perceived as pro-player, limited league-wide experience.
Brian Burke	Extensive NHL management experience, strong personality and leadership, deep understanding of the game, advocate for diversity and inclusion.	May be perceived as abrasive, history of questionable personnel decisions.
Donald Fehr	Unparalleled experience in labor relations, deep understanding of player concerns, strong track record in representing players.	May be perceived as adversarial by owners, limited experience outside labor relations.
Richard Scudamore	He has a proven track record in managing a global sports league. He has extensive experience in broadcast deals and revenue generation. He possesses a deep understanding of the global sports landscape.	Limited hockey and North American market experience, potential cultural differences.
Mark Lazarus	Extensive experience in sports media and broadcasting, deep understanding of NHL’s broadcast landscape, strong relationships with media partners.	Limited league management experience, may be perceived as too business-focused.

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Challenges and Opportunities Facing the NHL

The next NHL Commissioner will inherit a league at a crossroads, with a number of challenges and opportunities to address:

• Labor Relations: The current collective bargaining agreement expires in 2026, and negotiations for a new deal could be contentious. Key issues include revenue sharing, the escrow system, and player concerns about potential lockouts. Bettman has stated he wants a new CBA completed by the Stanley Cup Final in June. This adds pressure to the upcoming negotiations. There is a potential for conflict between the NHLPA and the new commissioner. This is particularly true if someone with a strong player advocacy background like Fehr is chosen. This situation could further complicate these negotiations.  
• Media Rights: The NHL’s media landscape is evolving rapidly. Streaming services like Amazon are on the rise. At the same time, traditional television viewership is declining. This presents challenges in maintaining viewership and negotiating media rights deals. Reaching new fans, particularly younger generations, is also a struggle. These younger generations are increasingly turning to digital platforms. The league must also address fan concerns about blackout restrictions and lengthy intermissions.  
• International Expansion: The NHL has opportunities to grow its fan base and revenue by expanding its presence in international markets. This includes promoting the sport globally, leveraging digital platforms, and creating compelling content that resonates with international audiences. The league has plans to host a “World Cup like you see in soccer.” Various locations in North America and Europe are under consideration. However, the NHL must balance its international ambitions with the needs and interests of its North American fan base.  
• Player Safety: Concussions and other injuries remain a significant concern. The league must continue to prioritize player safety. They can do this by improving safety measures, developing better equipment, and implementing stricter rules. These changes aim to reduce the risk of concussions. This involves addressing the incidence, impact, and mechanisms of concussions. Additionally, it includes providing support and resources for players who have suffered head injuries.  
• Competitive Balance: Ensuring competitive balance among teams is crucial for the long-term health of the league. This includes addressing revenue disparities between teams, managing the salary cap effectively, and potentially exploring new measures to promote parity. The potential for a higher salary cap in the near future could create new challenges in maintaining competitive balance. It could lead to bidding wars for top players. This shift could further exacerbate disparities between big-market and small-market teams.  
• Fan Engagement: The NHL needs to find new and innovative ways to engage fans, particularly younger generations. This involves embracing digital platforms. Additionally, it requires creating compelling content. Finally, investing in technologies and initiatives is crucial to enhance the in-arena and at-home fan experience. The league must also address fan concerns about the game itself. These concerns include the imperfect coach’s challenge system. There is also the lack of consistency in disciplinary decisions.  
• Franchise Stability and Relocation: The NHL faces challenges related to franchise relocation restrictions, including antitrust issues and legal challenges. The league must also address the long-term viability of teams in certain markets. This includes the Utah Hockey Club (formerly the Arizona Coyotes). There is also the potential for a new venue deal for the Arizona Coyotes.  
• Expansion: The NHL has recently expanded to 32 teams. They added the Vegas Golden Knights and the Seattle Kraken. There is interest in further expansion. The league might expand to 36 teams. Atlanta and Houston are considered leading candidates for expansion franchises. The next commissioner will need to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of further expansion. They must assess its impact on competitive balance. They must also evaluate revenue sharing and the overall fan experience.  
• Declining TV Ratings: The NHL has experienced a decline in TV ratings in recent years. This decline is attributed to several factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Other contributors are competition from other sports events and changes in viewing habits among younger generations. The next commissioner will need to develop strategies to address this decline. They should explore new media partnerships. Additionally, they can enhance the broadcast product and find innovative ways to engage fans through digital platforms.  
• Concussions: The NHL must continue to address the issue of concussions and their long-term impact on players. This includes investing in research, improving safety measures, and providing support and resources for players who have suffered head injuries. The league must educate players, coaches, and fans about the risks of concussions. Educating them about the importance of prevention is also necessary.  

How Each Candidate Might Address the Challenges

Each candidate’s background and experience would influence their approach to these challenges:

• Bill Daly: Daly has extensive NHL experience. He also has a deep understanding of the league’s operations. He would likely prioritize stability and continuity. He would likely seek to negotiate a new CBA that maintains the current economic system while addressing player concerns. However, his close association with Bettman might make it difficult for him to implement significant changes. It may also hinder addressing criticisms of the current leadership.  
• Steve Yzerman: As a respected former player and successful GM, Yzerman could bring a player-centric perspective to the commissioner role. He might focus on enhancing player safety, promoting competitive balance, and addressing player concerns about escrow payments and potential lockouts. Yzerman’s leadership style involves careful consideration. It also focuses on long-term success. This approach could be valuable in navigating complex issues and building consensus among stakeholders.  
• Brendan Shanahan: Shanahan has experience in player safety and discipline. This could make him a strong advocate for protecting players. He could also promote fair play. He might also seek to enhance fan engagement by emphasizing the skill and excitement of the game. He will address concerns about the coach’s challenge system and disciplinary consistency. Shanahan’s experience in working with the NHLPA could also be valuable in navigating labor relations and negotiating a new CBA.  
• Brian Burke: Burke’s strong personality and emphasis on “truculence” could be a double-edged sword. He might seek to re-energize the NHL’s brand. He aims to appeal to a broader audience. However, his outspoken nature could also create friction with owners and other stakeholders. Burke’s experience in building winning teams could be valuable in promoting competitive balance. His advocacy for diversity and inclusion could help the NHL address issues of social justice and equality within the sport.  
• Donald Fehr: Fehr’s unparalleled experience in labor relations would make him a formidable negotiator in the upcoming CBA talks. He would likely prioritize a collaborative approach. He would also advocate for changes that benefit players. These changes include increased revenue sharing and improved health benefits. However, he has a history of leading players through work stoppages in baseball. This might make some owners wary of his potential impact on labor peace in the NHL.  
• Richard Scudamore: Scudamore has experience in managing a global sports league. This could bring a fresh perspective to the NHL’s international expansion efforts. He might also work to enhance the league’s media presence. He could negotiate lucrative broadcast deals. He might address the challenges of the evolving media landscape. However, his lack of experience in hockey and the North American sports market could be a significant hurdle.  
• Mark Lazarus: Lazarus’s expertise in sports media and broadcasting could be invaluable as the NHL navigates the changing media landscape. He might enhance the NHL’s broadcast reach. He could engage new audiences through digital platforms. Additionally, he may secure favorable media rights deals. However, his limited experience in managing a sports league and its day-to-day operations could be a drawback.  

Early Favorites and Dark Horse Candidates

The race for the next NHL Commissioner remains open. Daly appears to be a frontrunner. This is due to his experience and close relationship with Bettman. However, his own comments suggest he may not be the league’s preferred choice. Yzerman is also seen as a strong contender, with his legendary status and successful track record as a GM.  

Shanahan and Burke could be considered dark horse candidates. They both have strong backgrounds in hockey. They have demonstrated leadership qualities. However, their potentially polarizing personalities might make some owners hesitant. Fehr, Scudamore, and Lazarus are outsiders with valuable experience in other areas of sports management. However, their lack of direct NHL experience might be a hurdle.

Expert Opinions and Insider Views

Experts and insiders have offered a range of opinions on Bettman’s potential successors. Renaud Lavoie, a TVA Sports journalist, suggested that Yzerman’s Canadian background and respect within the league could be valuable assets. Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold expressed concern about finding a replacement who can match Bettman’s leadership and business acumen. Some fans are celebrating Bettman’s impending retirement. They cite his handling of labor disputes. They also mention the lack of popularity of hockey in Canada compared to the United States. Others are nervous about the future of the league without Bettman. They acknowledge his role in growing the NHL into a successful business.  

Some insiders believe that the NHL will prioritize stability and continuity, with Daly being the likely choice. Some propose that the league might seek a fresh perspective. They might look outside the traditional hockey world for a new commissioner. It’s worth noting that Bettman was an outsider when he was hired in 1993. He had previously worked for the NBA. The NHL had several shortcomings. He was brought in to address issues in areas such as the collective bargaining agreement. He also worked on broadcast contracts and the promotion of star players. Despite skepticism from some owners, Bettman proved to be a successful leader. He expanded the league’s footprint and grew its revenue. His tenure has been described as “transformative.” He has been recognized for his business acumen. However, he remains a polarizing figure due to his handling of labor disputes and other controversies.  

The Selection Process

The NHL Commissioner is selected by the league’s Board of Governors. The Board consists of representatives from each of the 32 teams. According to the NHL Constitution, the Commissioner serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the league. The Commissioner must protect the integrity of professional hockey. They also preserve public confidence in the league. The Commissioner is elected by a majority vote of the Governors present at a league meeting. The Board of Governors also determines the term of office and compensation of the Commissioner.  

Conclusion

The selection of the next NHL Commissioner will be a defining moment for the league. The new leader will face a myriad of challenges. They will need to navigate a changing media landscape. They must ensure labor peace. Another challenge is expanding the league’s international reach. They also have to engage new generations of fans. Several candidates possess the experience and qualifications to succeed Bettman. However, the ultimate decision rests with the NHL’s Board of Governors. Their choice will shape the future of the NHL and determine the direction of the league for years to come. The ideal candidate will need to balance the interests of owners, players, and fans. They must also possess the vision and leadership to guide the NHL through a period of rapid change. The sports industry is evolving quickly.

Bill Daly seems like the most likely person to take over from Gary Bettman. This is due to his years of experience as Gary’s #2. The NHL owners should be smart. This remains to be proven. They would select someone different to help the NHL grow moving forward. Personally I would love to see someone like Brian Burke or Brendan Shanahan take over as the next NHL commissioner. Selfishly, I want it to be Shanahan. He would no longer be President of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Maybe some changes would happen with the organization. Burke or Shanahan would be excellent for the game. Both have a wealth of experience. Shanahan is an ex player, Player safety director, and team president. Burke was executive vice president and director of hockey operations for the NHL. He also served as team GM, team president, and PWHLPA executive director.

It’s been far too long for Gary to be commissioner for the NHL and change is needed. NHL owners, please don’t select Bill Daly as commissioner. It would be status quo. The game deserves to be so much better. It should be run by people with inside knowledge of how players act and feel about things.