In Boston, Fluto Shinzawa wrote the NHL's deal with MLBAM is a "good thing for all parties." The deal "qualifies as hockey-related revenue, which means the salary cap will rise because of the agreement, although it’s unknown how much of an increase there will be." The NHL "chose its partner well," as MLBAM "operates the digital experience not just for baseball" but for HBO, the PGA Tour, WWE and YES Network. Only imagination "limits the possibilities" in terms of hockey-related content that could stem from the partnership (BOSTON GLOBE, 8/9). In Buffalo, Mike Harrington wrote it is "good to see the NHL accept that it had fallen far behind" in ancillary areas that "can bring the league huge revenues and provide even closer connections to its fans." MLB has "been the leader for more than a decade." The NHL made a "good call to join with the best" (BUFFALO NEWS, 8/9).
KINGS' COURT? In L.A., Lisa Dillman reported the NHLPA, as expected, has "taken the next step on behalf" of free agent C Mike Richards, "contesting his contract termination" by the Kings after his arrest on drug charges. What is "expected to be a heated battle was sparked when the Kings, on June 29, opted to terminate the contract of Richards, rather than buy him out, citing a 'material breach of the requirements of his standard player’s contract.'" An independent arbitrator will "hear the matter" (LATIMES.com, 8/10).
DESERTING THE DESERT: In Boston, Nick Cafardo reported MLB has "closed its Scottsdale, Ariz., office, wanting to streamline its operation" under Commissioner Rob Manfred. MLB Senior VP/Standards & On-Field Operations Joe Garagiola Jr. and VP/Western Operations & Special Projects Laurel Prieb "will be moving" to N.Y. (BOSTON GLOBE, 8/9).
