An NHL insider has just revealed who the likely candidate is to replace Gary Bettman, which is great news for the return of hockey to Quebec City. While Gary Bettman isn't about to step down as NHL commissioner tomorrow, it's notable that discussions about his potential successor are starting to emerge behind the scenes. Having served the position for over 30 years, the now 72-year-old Bettman might be considering the next chapter in his life. He has been leading the league through decades of growth and challenges, devoting an enormous piece of his career to shaping the NHL. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1857443955882725699'> </a></blockquote></div> This was recently discussed to some degree, as respected Sportsnet journalist Elliotte Friedman chimed in. Friedman identified Bill Daly, the NHL's current deputy commissioner, as the likely candidate to eventually replace Bettman. «There is no doubt in my mind, the most qualified person to succeed Gary Bettman is Bill Daly. He knows the league inside and out and would be the ideal man to hold this position for many years. If it's not him, we'll have to wonder who could be our version of Roger Goodell.» - Elliotte Friedman Daly's apparent rise to power could come with serious consequences, none more important than for fans of the Quebec Nordiques. <a href='https://www.hockeylatest.com/nhl/news/source-reveals-gary-bettman-and-the-nhl-shutdown-the-return-of-the-nordiques-twice' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>GoNordiques says Daly seems much more open to league expansion than Bettman</a>, a primary point of conflict between him and Bettman during past negotiations. That openness could reinvigorate efforts for the Nordiques to return. While nothing is imminent, it's a development worth monitoring throughout the season. Bettman's eventual departure could be the linchpin the league needs to re-evaluate itself and the direction of the future.