In terms of Bettman’s future, I’ve thought a lot lately about when he might step down as commissioner (which presumably will also coincide with Colin Campbell’s departure). Bettman’s been at it for 30 years, which is how many years his mentor, David Stern, served as NBA commissioner. So, he’ll pass Stern’s record this year, one of his personal aspirations. Clarence Campbell served as NHL president between 1946 and 1977 — so 31 years. Even though he’d never say it, I’ve long believed Bettman wants to beat Campbell’s record as well as Stern’s. He does have an ego, in case you haven’t noticed.

Bettman is now 71. To the best of my knowledge, the contract extension he signed in 2022 will carry him to 2027. He told me once, back at the outdoor game in Regina, when I asked him where the NHL would be in 2030, that he wouldn’t be running the league by then. Accordingly, my new best guess is four more years of Bettman, provided his health remains good, and then he rides off into the sunset. He just looks as if he’s having too much fun right now to step down.

-Eric Duhatschek of The Athletic where you can read more ($) from Duhatschek responding to questions from fans.