Player agent blasts NHL officiating, says that Bettman told teams not to oppose this aspect of the game

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Sam Hutch
October 29, 2023 (11:39)

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The National Hockey League has had a very hard time with consistent, reliable and honest officiating it recent years, but it seems early this season the on ice product has diminished even more. However, most times we wonder why players and coaches don't speak out about the obvious miss calls. Now, we have our answer.

According to notable player agent Allan Walsh, general manages and coaches were given a directive not to go against the NHL officials or their calls publicly; take a look.

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Gary Bettman summoned all 32 GM's/Head Coaches to a meeting in Chicago this year just before training camp and sternly warned coaches against any public comments criticizing officials.

Too bad Gary can't control what agents say.

NHL officiating is a smoking pile of HOT GARBAGE!

I know Gary Bettman wants to have control over things, but you shouldn't be able to have this much control over coaches and general manages. Especially when your product on the ice is suffering the way that it is.

I don't always agree with Walsh and how outspoken he is on Twitter, but if this is at all true, this is another example at how Bettman is ruining the game of hockey. Coaches and general managers should be able to call out officials, otherwise, it's just not right.

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POLL
OCTOBRE 29 \| 132 ANSWERS Player agent blasts NHL officiating, says that Bettman told teams not to oppose this aspect of the game Do you think the coaches should be able to criticize officiating?
Yes	101	76.5 %
No	6	4.5 %
They should be able to	11	8.3 %
Bettman is ruining the NHL	14	10.6 %
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Player agent blasts NHL officiating, says that Bettman told teams not to oppose this aspect of the game

Do you think the coaches should be able to criticize officiating?