Russia at the World Cup? Not now, sounds like the NHL. Prague is to be further on the plan
Even before the start of the doubleheader between San Jose and Nashville, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly spoke in the bowels of Prague’s O2 arena. He outlined other ideas of the NHL, being very careful with his language. None in particular. However, the Czechia stands very high in his eyes. “We like Prague. Local people are very passionate about hockey, which means it’s an attractive option for us,” said a member of the top management of the Canadian-American competition.
He sat down, greeted everyone present, thanked his partners. And then they patiently answered the questions. Bill Daly weighed his every word, he didn’t want to reveal anything specific. However, representatives of the NHL are not yet considering a significant expansion into Europe.
“In the short term, we will continue with the system we have put in place. Maybe we’ll increase the number of teams looking at Europe,” Daly admitted. “But for there to be teams that will be in Europe permanently, we are not thinking about it yet. We use events like this to connect with European fans and see players who grew up here. It helps our brand, our business.”
Before the NHL in Prague, Jágr joked about Hertl: He will score three goals twice and go home
It is not yet clear what the NHL schedule will look like on the old continent for next season, or whether overseas teams will return to Czech soil next year. Only the management has to make the final decision. However, Daly is convinced that the matches between the Sharks and Predators will not be the last in Prague.
He also commented on the topic of the World Cup. The NHL plans to implement it in February 2024, but negotiations are constantly ongoing. Even the playing system is not certain, at least eight teams should try out the prestigious event. At risk is the participation of belligerent Russia due to its aggression in Ukraine.
“If I had to answer today whether Russia will participate, I would say no. We would not invite this team if their current status remains unchanged. Our expectations are that he will play, but we could still send two or three more places,” concluded the representative of the commission.
Hertl took his son to the ice: I wanted him to experience it with me. Šimek described the experience of Wenceslas Square
Tomáš Hertl at training in the O arena