Akim Aliu claims “there’ll be big change coming” after meeting with Bettman

An important meeting took place today and it appears that it will change a lot in the National Hockey League. 

Akim Aliu and lawyer James Bunting came to the NHL offices in Toronto on Tuesday afternoon, just a week after they met with the NHLPA following the racism scandal that took place 10 years ago when Aliu played under head coach Bill Peters in the American Hockey League. 

In case you missed, Calgary Flames head coach Bill Peters was accused of making racist remarks at Aliu during the 2009-10 season with the Rockford IceHogs of the AHL. Peters handed in his letter of resignation on Friday. 

On top of that, reports of physical abuse were added to the mix. TSN's Frank Seravelli gave more information, using the comments of former Carolina Hurricanes players who were coached by Peters and it seems like there was also an abuse issue. Former Canes player Michal Jordan confirms to TSN that there were “multiple” physical altercations between Peters and players in Carolina.

After the meeting with Gary Bettman at the NHL offices on Tuesday, Aliu makes this brief statement per Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman. 

He said he had a positive meeting with Gary Bettman and Bill Daly, adding there will be big change coming and he’s looking forward to seeing it.

Does this mean more firings will be happening in the NHL? 

As you know Marc Crawford has been removed from his position from the Chicago Blackhawks after allegations of abuse were hurled at him by former players Brent Sopen and Patrick O’Sullivan.

We will keep you posted!