"Now, he's got a stable platform, and we've got labor peace and a great broadcast agreement. So it's been amazing to watch him do this."
With Bettman's guidance, the NHL footprint has also become more global, with regular-season games being played in Europe and Japan, and exhibition games in China. In addition, NHL players have showcased the game by participating in four Winter Olympics and three World Cup of Hockey tournaments.
"The Commissioner's vision to give every club a chance to win the Stanley Cup has made our game stronger," Hockey Hall of Famer Wayne Gretzky said. "His leadership and love for hockey is very evident. And hockey has become more entertaining year after year, thanks in part to his passion for the game."
That passion has been evident since Commisioner Bettman joined the NHL after working as deputy general counsel for the NBA. Burke knew little about Commissioner Bettman before he was hired and recalled being skeptical before having a telephone conversation with Bob Stein, then the president of the NBA's Minnesota Timberwolves.
"Bob Stein is a good friend of mine, and I called him and I said, 'They want to talk this guy, Bettman. Do you know who he is, this Bettman?'" Burke said. "He was like, 'If you guys can get Bettman, get him. He's a genius.'
"My first introduction to Gary, someone told me he's a genius. And he is."