Gretzky praises Bettman for NHL's growth, competitiveness

Wayne Gretzky isn't part of the Hockey Hall of Fame selection committee, but if he were, it sure sounds like commissioner Gary Bettman's induction would have gotten his stamp of approval.

"What makes the game of hockey so wonderful is the fans, the players, the coaches, the cities that back their teams, the global growth of hockey, the ever-expanding growth of our game in North America and, of course, the competitive balance we are fortunate to have in our league," Gretzky told Dan Rosen of NHL.com on Tuesday when the 2018 class was announced.

"The commissioner's vision to give every club a chance to win the Stanley Cup has made our game stronger. His leadership and love for hockey is very evident. And hockey has become more entertaining year after year, thanks in part to his passion for the game."

Named commissioner in 1993, the NHL has seen massive gains throughout Bettman's tenure, particularly expansion from 24 to 31 teams, largely in the southern United States. The Anaheim Ducks, Nashville Predators, and Vegas Golden Knights are among the success stories.

Under Bettman, the NHL has also secured cost certainty, introducing a salary cap to begin the 2005-06 season, and boosted league revenues more than tenfold. The average player salary has climbed to more than $3 million a year. However, he's also presided over three lockouts, including one that wiped out the entire 2004-05 season.