NHL commissioner Gary Bettman is being chastised for trying to make the league a better place. His latest moves, including new partnerships and broadcasting agreements, are no exception. Bettman is willing to take calculated risks to maximize the league's exposure and revenue potential even if it means getting involved in a bankruptcy case. The NHL agreed to a new deal with Diamond Sports Group, the company behind Bally Sports who went bankrupt earlier this season. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/thescore/status/1827473510572142663'> </a></blockquote></div> David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, highlighted the value of the new deal. <q> We are appreciative of the ongoing collaboration and long-term partnerships with the NBA and NHL. These new agreements that cover NBA and NHL linear and (direct-to-consumer) rights are another major milestone and continue Diamond's momentum toward emergence, which will enable us to provide value for our NBA and NHL partners and continue to serve dedicated local NBA, NHL, and MLB fans. </q> Yet, the company is facing financial hardships, but securing TV rights for nine NHL teams-including the Anaheim Ducks, Carolina Hurricanes, and Detroit Red Wings-is needed and Bettman is willing to do whatever he can to make it happen. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/eddieintheyard/status/1827081484987199960'> </a></blockquote></div> If Diamond emerges victorious from the federal court case on September 3, where this agreement is expected to be reviewed, the NHL stands to benefit from expanded coverage and marketing. Hockey's fearless leader is looking at the big picture. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/evandrellich/status/1827075467368673406'> </a></blockquote></div> However, if they come out on the wrong side of the deal, the league could lose millions in revenue. Let's not forget the Fanatics deal a year ago, a move to bring more consistency and branding control under one roof, but was criticized by fans quality issues on NHL jerseys. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/tzatoky/status/1826776727344869865'> </a></blockquote></div> Still, Bettman knows these deals are crucial for growing the league's brand, even if they come with some initial bumps. He's playing a long game, and only time will tell just how well it pays off for the NHL or if things fall apart. It's a risk which has fans worried, but one the commissioner is willing to take. Source: Blades Of Steel <a href='https://www.bladeofsteel.com/nhl/news/gary-bettman-signs-contract-with-partner-who-nearly-cost-the-league-millions' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>Gary Bettman signs contract with partner who nearly cost the league millions</a>