A lot of people have told me for the last 15 years, "Gary, we love what you've done to the game, what more can you do?" At first, I thank them, but why should I? I'm Gary f-ing Bettman? I don't have to thank anyone.
Anyway, what was I saying....oh, so someone asked what I could do make the game more available and popular. Well, I wanted to permanently hold all Stanley Cup Finals games in New Orleans, like the Super Bowl. But some smart ass Canadian intern I got working here at headquarters from Moose Jaw suggested holding an outdoor game. Turns out, the little bastard stole the idea from the Edmonton Oilers, who, as it turns out to my surprise, actually did this several years without my knowledge. (Note to self - must pay more attention to Canada. They like the game).
So, we held an outdoor game this season in Buffalo and it was a big success. Lots of people attended the game. I even heard a rumor that NBC - a national broadcasting company based out of New York (New York people!!!) even carried the game.
With that kind of success, we are going to do it again this year. Where, you ask? Chicago!!! And, we'll have the Black Hawks face off against their Original Eight...er, Six, rival Detroit Red Wings.
'Gary, that's awesome! When can we expect to see this game because I'd love to attend it, or, at least watch it on TV.' I've even had some say to me, 'Gary, surely you aren't stupid enough to schedule this game on a major holiday where it would compete for viewers with time honored classic sports viewing like NCAA football bowl games?'
Well, folks, if you want to challenge my stupidity, I raise you.
Not only will this game compete against NCAA football, I'm going to also hold the game on January 1!!! Top that one mother f-ers!
See you Saturday in Pittsburgh.
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