NHL Begins Succession Planning as Gary Bettman Signals Eventual Retirement

After more than three decades as commissioner, Bettman has initiated discussions about his future, though no timeline has been set for his departure.

Gary Bettman, NHL commissioner since 1993, has acknowledged the need for eventual retirement planning but emphasized he has no immediate timeline to step down.
The NHL's executive committee has begun preparations for leadership succession, as confirmed by Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold in a recent podcast appearance.
During Bettman's tenure, the league has expanded from 24 to 32 teams, with revenues growing from $400 million to a projected $6.6 billion in 2024-25.
Bettman expressed continued passion for his role but noted the complexity of transitioning leadership after his record-breaking 32-year tenure.
Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly, with two decades of experience in NHL leadership, is considered a likely candidate to succeed Bettman when the time comes.