Articles / NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman is Right About No State Income Tax Being Ridiculous

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman is Right About No State Income Tax Being Ridiculous

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NHL Rumors
Jun 12, 2025 8:43 PM

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In the ongoing debate surrounding player recruitment and retention, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman recently emphasized the absurdity of the argument surrounding state income tax advantages. Many clubs have touted that states with no personal income tax, like Florida and Texas, provide a substantial advantage in attracting talent. Bettman insisted that the benefits of living and playing in places like these are often overstated, as players also consider other factors such as quality of life and the strength of the team's competitive environment.

Bettman highlighted that the excitement and buzz around an NHL franchise should not be underestimated. Players like Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning and Jamie Benn of the Dallas Stars have both chosen to stay in their respective markets for reasons beyond just tax incentives. The commissioner argued that organizations must focus on creating a compelling team culture and fostering strong relationships with their players to remain competitive in securing top talent.

The dialogue becomes particularly interesting as teams like the New York Islanders and the Montreal Canadiens strive to attract more players in an ever-evolving league. Bettman’s comments underscore the importance of a franchise’s legacy and community support over mere financial incentives. As the NHL continues to grow, franchises are reevaluating their strategies for building competitive teams while navigating the complexities of player decisions influenced by taxes and personal factors alike.