By Liz Mullen, Staff Writer, SportsBusiness Journal
NHLPA Associate Counsel IAN PULVER, who sources say was at odds with NHLPA Exec Dir TED SASKIN, sent a letter to NHL players Wednesday, informing them that he had resigned. “Since 1990, I have had the privilege and honour to work on behalf of over 2500 NHLPA members,” Pulver wrote in his letter. “Never forget that you are a Player. Be proud of that as no one can ever take that from you. The Players are the game,” he wrote. Sources said that his resignation followed a dispute over his pay, with some sources saying he was singled out to take a pay cut. Pulver could not be reached for comment on that. Pulver, who worked on player grievances and salary arbitrations, was close to many players, including members of a group of players who have challenged the legitimacy of Saskin’s hiring as executive director. Red Wings D CHRIS CHELIOS, one of the leaders of that group, said in January the leadership of the union “is basically trying to get rid of Ian.” Pulver’s resignation follows that of former NHLPA Player Relations Dir STEVE LARMER, who resigned in November, stating in a much publicized letter that the union had taken a step backwards under Saskin’s leadership.
