NHL commissioner Gary Bettman answered questions from reporters during his visit Tuesday to Montreal before the meeting between the Canadiens and the Boston Bruins.
Among the many topics discussed during his press briefing, Bettman was optimistic about the possibility of seeing the Bleu-Blanc-Rouge playing a match in Europe.
He said an owners’ committee looks at international game issues and Habs owner Geoff Molson is co-chair on that committee. He did not hide that he would like to see the Canadians play on the Old Continent.
“It has to be in the right circumstances, with the right market and we have to assess the costs. This is something that would be on the horizon in my opinion. I would love to bring the Canadians to Europe,” Bettman said.
The Nashville Predators and San Jose Sharks kicked off last season in Prague, Czechia. The Colorado Avalanche and the Columbus Blue Jackets also played in Finland. Since 1997, it has been the 37e and 38e NHL game played outside of North America.
A decision to come on Mailloux?
In another matter Bettman discussed, the NHL barred forward Mitchell Miller from the league when the Bruins signed him this fall.
Miller committed several acts of intimidation and racism against a classmate and the league had to intervene when the Bruins wanted to give him a chance. The Coyotes had also abandoned his rights shortly after selecting him in the draft in 2020.
Asked whether Canadian prospect Logan Mailloux would have to be approved by the NHL before he can join the ranks of the circuit, Bettman said he will cross this bridge once at the river.
“We will evaluate the file if and when the Canadiens decide to bring it to the NHL level, said Bettman. I believe that depending on the circumstances and the person, it is possible to have the right to a second chance. It’s case by case. But basically, we haven’t tackled this file yet. ”
