AP By just about any standard, the ratings and turnout for the NHL’s return have been impressive. Gary Bettman expressed relief and delight regarding early post-lockout successes to the Sports Business Daily on Wednesday.
“We could be hopeful all we wanted, but we didn’t take anything for granted,” Bettman said. “We are grateful and we are excited.”
The NHL’s long-standing commissioner credited fan outreach programs and discounts (the Ottawa Senators gave out free beer, for instance) as a big reason for the bounce back.
“We really thought that it was most important initially that the fans reconnect with their teams,” Bettman said. “We took out ads in every market nationally in Canada and the U.S. But we thought it was more important initially that all of our efforts be focused on backstopping the clubs as they reached out.”
It’s probably wise that he didn’t trot out his “greatest fans in the world” line again, though.
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His annual cap hit is a hefty $7,727,273.
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Coburn might be heading the other way.
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He also loves 2013 NHL Draft prospect Darnell Nurse.
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The coach already had him picked as Plan B if Marian Hossa couldn’t play.
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Blackhawks coach knows his team has to improve in those areas.
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AP
Stemming from his arrest in 2011.
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“I’ve got a nice little scratch mark on my forehead from the claw marks.”
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23-year-old defenseman had six goals in the playoffs.
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26-year-old made his NHL debut last season.
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But will they stay?
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Could an NHL team one day call it home?
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Sharks, Couture reportedly agree to five-year, $30 million extension
Jun 18, 2013, 3:07 PM EDT
As per TSN’s Bob McKenzie.
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He’s still “day-to-day” with his injury.
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He’s been given permission to seek employment elsewhere.
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“We don’t care about calling certain guys superstars on our team,” said the coach.
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AP
Hey, he did take two weeks off.
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AP
The Isles are one team that’s reportedly interested.
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Former North Dakota standout was a 2009 Panthers draftee.
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The No. 2 overall pick at the 2013 NHL Entry Draft is ready to go.
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Former ‘Hawks assistant takes over the Caps’ minor-league team.
