NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman stated that the league is not concerned about the potential advantage Florida teams may have due to the state’s lack of a state income tax. The Florida-based teams include the Panthers and Lightning, located in Sunrise and Tampa Bay, respectively.
Factors Influencing Player Decisions
Bettman highlighted that players consider a variety of factors when choosing a team:
- Organization Quality: Players look for good organizations.
- Location: Living in a desirable area is important.
- Facilities: Access to quality training facilities is a key consideration.
- Teammates: The presence of strong teammates can influence decisions.
He emphasized that while taxes are a significant consideration for many, they are not the sole factor for professional athletes. Bettman remarked, "I think it’s fair to say that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Players have different priorities than non-athletes."
Impact of Florida’s Tax-Free Status
The Tampa Bay Lightning, a division rival of the Panthers, also benefits from Florida’s tax-free status and the state’s warm weather. This climate can be advantageous for players during the long NHL season, which includes multiple games per week.
Bettman acknowledged that some players may prioritize taxes more than others but cautioned against making broad generalizations about player preferences.
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