Bettman: U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team criticism ‘unfortunate’

NHL head Gary Bettman chose not to provide an opinion on Tuesday regarding the political dimension of the American hockey team’s celebration at the Milan-Cortina Olympic Games. However, he did state his belief that the depiction of events “was regrettable and incorrect.”

Speaking during a press gathering at Calgary’s Scotiabank Saddledome, Bettman asserted, “I am certain the male squad held no desire to disrespect the female team.” He added, “Indeed, both teams were jointly cheering, ‘Two for two,'”

American athletes secured Olympic gold medals in both the male and female competitions. Each championship game concluded with a 2-1 overtime triumph against Canada.

Subsequent to the men’s win on February 22nd, the American players were accompanied in their changing room by FBI Director Kash Patel. Additionally, the team received a speakerphone call from then-President Donald Trump.

On this call, President Trump extended an invitation for the squad to attend his State of the Union address occurring two days thence. He then remarked that he would also be compelled to invite the women’s team, subsequently quipping that failing to do so might lead to his impeachment. This remark prompted laughter from the players, a reaction widely considered by many to be sexist.

Throughout the previous week, the male players frequently responded to inquiries concerning their laughter during Trump’s jest. A common explanation offered was that they were engrossed in the excitement of their post-game festivities.

Bettman expressed, “I regret the events as they transpired and were presented, and I believe it was unjust towards the men’s squad.” He continued, “Furthermore, I don’t believe the women’s team held a divergent perspective. Consider [U.S. women’s captain] Hilary Knight and other individuals commenting on the situation. Both of these teams held mutual respect.”

Reports indicate that the two U.S. ice hockey teams fostered a strong bond within the athletes’ village, mutually supporting each other’s quests for gold. This point was underscored by the players repeatedly throughout the previous week.

The female team did not receive a congratulatory phone call from the president and became aware of a White House invitation only several hours following the conclusion of the men’s match. The team courteously turned down the invitation, referencing travel arrangements that had been finalized days prior.

A number of male athletes accompanied Trump at the White House on February 24th, subsequently receiving applause at the Capitol during his address.

Bettman Noncommittal Regarding World Cup of Hockey Proposals

On Tuesday as well, Bettman maintained discretion concerning prospective offers to host the 2028 World Cup of Hockey tournament.

Bettman stated his intention not to foster conjecture regarding the specific cities vying to host the global competition.

This World Cup of Hockey event features the globe’s premier players competing against one another while representing their respective nations.

The tournament has not taken place since 2016, a year in which Canada successfully retained its championship, previously won twelve years prior, by defeating Team Europe 2-1 in the ultimate match.

Questioned on whether Calgary and Edmonton were presenting a collaborative proposal to host the tournament, Bettman confirmed his “awareness of the submission.”

Bettman declared he would not divulge specifics, such as whether it was a combined or separate initiative, or the parties involved.

Should the competition be held in Calgary, its timing would coincide closely with the anticipated finalization of the city’s new sports venue.