Gary Bettman addresses Donald Trump as NHL is affected by tensions between U.S. and Canada

National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman has made it clear in an interview with CNBC’s Becky Quick on “Squawk Box on Wednesday : the league could be affected by the current tensions between U.S. and Canada.

Bettman first started with pointing out how 25% of the league’s revenue comes from its Canadian clubs. Seven Canadian teams, who perform well, could suffer ramifications for the league depending on the state of Canadian tariffs.

“All players, no matter which country they play in, get paid in U.S. dollars,” Bettman said. “So if the impact of the tariffs is to see the Canadian dollar drop relative to the U.S. dollar, it will make it more difficult and more painful.”

At the time of the interview on CNBC, Bettman had not spoken directly with the American president Donald Trump, though he did address a message in which he stated how he believes the tension between the two countries is a “policy issue,” with Canadians and Americans getting” caught in the middle.”

The commissioner did explain how the uncertainty and tariffs may also cause difficulties with the NHL’s sponsors.

“I’m hoping that this is a moment in time and both countries find a way to work through this,” Bettman said

Bettman remains confident in the success of the league as it is projected to exceed revenues of $7 billion in mixed currency for the current 2024-25 season. With most teams playing at 96.7% capacity season to date, the league is also setting record ratings and strong attendance this year.

“Our ratings are strong and we have great media partners in Canada and the United States,” Bettman said. “And we’re in a good place because the game has never been better.”

Let’s hope the tension between the usual allies do not screw things up for the NHL and its huge fanbase. There are seven Canadian teams in the NHL, including the Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, Winnipeg Jets, Toronto Maple Leafs, Ottawa Senators and Montreal Canadiens.

Tensions continue to flare between the nations after U.S. President Trump threatened to impose tariffs on Canada. Trump also suggested the country could become America’s ‘51st state’, prompting backlash from a close neighbor and longtime ally.