Gary Bruce Bettman, born on June 2, 1952, is an American sports executive currently serving as the National Hockey League (NHL) commissioner since February 1, 1993. Before his role in the NHL, Bettman was senior vice president and general counsel to the National Basketball Association (NBA). A graduate of Cornell University and New York University School of Law, Bettman was honored with induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2018.
During his tenure, Bettman played a pivotal role in expanding the NHL's presence in the United States, overseeing the addition of eight new teams, bringing the total to 32 teams by the start of the 2021–22 season. In recognition of his accomplishments, he was named "Sports Executive of the Year" by the SportsBusiness Journal and SportsBusiness Daily in May 2014. Additionally, Bettman joined the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in 2016.
Gary Bettman’s Salary
In the 2023-24 season, Gary Bettman's annual salary as the NHL Commissioner is reported to be $9,500,000.
During the lockout-shortened 2012–13 season, Gary Bettman, as the National Hockey League (NHL) Commissioner, received a total compensation of $8.8 million. By the following season, 2013–14, his salary had further increased to $9.5 million, as disclosed in the NHL's filings with the Internal Revenue Service.
Going further back in time, Bettman's total compensation was $7.23 million for the 2008–09 season with a base salary of $5,529,490. Notably, this base salary had been $3.77 million prior to the 2004–05 lockout.
Despite facing criticism for controversial league expansions and labor stoppages, Bettman has been instrumental in negotiating lucrative television deals, contributing to the league's financial success. His consistently high earnings in recent years highlight the stability and financial prosperity achieved under his tenure as Commissioner. Lastly, Bettman's journey to this salary level reflects his leadership throughout the NHL's growth and evolution.
FAQ's On Gary Bettman’s Salary
A. Gary Bettman's reported salary for the 2023-24 NHL season is $9,500,000.
A. During the lockout-shortened 2012–13 season, Gary Bettman earned a total compensation of $8.8 million as NHL Commissioner.
A. For the 2013–14 season, Gary Bettman's total compensation increased to $9.5 million, marking a rise from previous years, as disclosed in the NHL's filings with the Internal Revenue Service.
A. In the 2008–09 NHL season, Gary Bettman's base salary was $5,529,490, part of a total compensation of $7.23 million.
A. Gary Bettman's leadership has significantly contributed to the NHL's financial success, reflected in his consistently high salary over the years. Through strategic expansions, lucrative television deals, and financial prosperity, Bettman has played a pivotal role in enhancing the league's economic standing.
