NHL fans furious after Bettman joins Trump's controversial council
Photo credit: Sportsnet
The NHL commissioner is set to serve on Donald Trump's Presidential Sports Council, joining Wayne Gretzky and Matthew Tkachuk, a move that has drawn plenty of reaction across the hockey world.
When Gary Bettman accepted an invitation to join Donald Trump's restructured President's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, it marked another crossover between the NHL and U.S. politics.
The council also includes hockey legends like Wayne Gretzky and current players such as Matthew Tkachuk.
The role is designed to advise on youth sports and college athletics, and it quickly became a topic of conversation among hockey fans. Some saw it as an opportunity to raise the NHL's profile, while others questioned the optics given the league's past messaging on inclusion, as reported by The Guardian.
Hockey fans debate Bettman's decision on social media
Reaction on social media has been mixed, with some fans voicing concern while others welcomed the connection to Trump's council.
«Why is Wayne doing this for the USA ??? He is Canadian. Don't we come first Wayne??!!!!!»
- @hornejal on X
- @hornejal on X
«Him, Gretzky, and Bettman are now on a board made by Trump to 'save college sports'. Kinda funny when you realize none of them played college hockey.»
- Another fan on X
- Another fan on X
For Bettman, who has served as NHL commissioner since 1993, the appointment adds another layer to his long legacy in the sport. With big names like Gretzky also on board, the move ensures hockey has a voice in broader sports discussions.
The membership details and early reaction were also covered by Sportskeeda, noting the broader fan debate over Bettman's decision.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 17 | 34 ANSWERS NHL fans furious after Bettman joins Trump's controversial council Do you think Bettman's decision to join Trump's sports council will harm the NHL's reputation? | ||
| Yes | 15 | 44.1 % |
| No | 19 | 55.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
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