Tocchet Receives Two Years Probation For Role In Gambling Ring

Tocchet Receives Probation For Ties To Gambling Ring

NHL FACES TOUGH CALL: In Toronto, Eric Duhatschek wrote the NHL has two choices -- reinstate Tocchet "on the grounds that he was mostly guilty of stupidity and poor judgment" or "ban him from the game indefinitely.” Tocchet’s return to coaching “remains the longest of long shots,” as the league still has to complete its internal investigation. But given the “current climate and the desperate need for integrity in the world of professional sports, it is hard to imagine any circumstances under which the NHL would accede to Tocchet’s plea for reinstatement” (Toronto GLOBE & MAIL, 8/18). SLAM SPORTS' Friesen noted NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman “has a tough one on his hands,” as he can “give the guy a second chance, or distance [his] league from any form of illegal gambling” (SLAM.CANOE.ca, 8/18).  In Toronto, Damien Cox wrote under the header, “Bettman Can’t Afford The Gamble On Tocchet.” Cox: “The NHL can’t possibly countenance having a coach convicted of felonious gambling activities simply go back to work. ... A season-long ban makes more sense. It’s an opportunity for [Bettman] to acquire the undivided attention of every player and coach in the league” (TORONTO STAR, 8/18).

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