"First, let's mention that this is a first victory (in the Stanley Cup final) for the Panthers, since they have never won the Cup.
In my initial year as commissioner, the Montreal Canadiens won the Cup, and, you know, there are theories – they are false – saying that we have something to do with that. We are truly a league of several countries. We have clubs in the United States and Canada, and I do not see this as a two-league system.
I understand the passion for this sport in Canada. It's exceptional, but in the end, it's up to the teams to decide what happens on the ice, and I don't believe their country of origin has anything to do with it." - Gary Bettman
