Bettman on Blackhawks assault allegations: first reaction was to tell me the facts

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NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said allegations that a former Chicago Blackhawks player was sexually assaulted by an assistant coach at the time are concerning.

But he adds that his first reaction to the news was: tell me the facts.

Speaking during his annual media availability ahead of Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final on Monday night, Bettman said the league learned of the allegations relatively recently.

Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said the NHL was briefed by the Blackhawks’ general counsel.

Chicago has hired a former federal prosecutor to conduct an independent review of the allegations, which come after two lawsuits were filed against the club. Athletic was the first to report the news from the independent review.

The first complaint alleges sexual assault by former assistant coach Bradley Aldrich during the 2010 teams race that ended in a Stanley Cup victory, while the second was filed by a former student Aldrich brought to life. been convicted of assault in Michigan.

None of the allegations have been tested in court.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on June 28, 2021.

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