Much-booed NHL commissioner Bettman has grown the league over 25 years
MONTREAL — Gary Bettman, who replaced league president Gil Stein under the new title of NHL commissioner on Feb. 1, 1993, is celebrating his 25th anniversary at the head of a league he has seen grow from 24 to 31 teams. Here’s a look at key events in the 65-year-old New York native’s reign:
REVENUES
When Bettman took over, league-wide revenues were about US$400 million. Projected revenues for the 2018-19 campaign are $4.54 billion.
The NHL still trails other major North American sports leagues in value, but having more teams, larger arenas and better television and sponsorship deals has seen the NHL get substantially bigger and richer under Bettman.