NHL's Gary Bettman Bullish On League's New TV Rights Deal

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman this afternoon said that the league’s 10-year, $2B TV rights deal with NBC/Versus is the “most significant in the league's history.” Bettman: “This is right across all factors, not the least of which is the tremendous relationship we have with NBC and Versus. When we looked at the entire package and the relationship, it was clear we were going to stay with the incumbent. But it's nice to go out and find out you're pretty.'' NBC Sports Chair Dick Ebersol said that the Versus name “will be changed within 90 days to better reflect its association with NBC” (AP, 4/19).

Sources said that the broadcaster and league are "looking to create a 'March Madness' style promotion of the playoffs" on both NBC and the cable outlet. They also will "extend the reach of the NHL's Winter Classic" (THEGLOBEANDMAIL.com, 4/19).