In the world of NHL player media tours, there is no better source of insight than The Athletic. For the second consecutive year, their coverage of these tours provided fans with a unique glimpse into the minds of their favorite players. The latest stops on this tour included Prague and Las Vegas, where players gathered to share their thoughts on a variety of topics.
Among the highlights of the tour was a preseason player poll conducted by The Athletic. Over three dozen players participated in the survey, offering their opinions on a wide range of league issues. From long-term injured reserved to tax advantages, the players’ responses provided a fascinating look at the leaguewide sentiment.
Players were assured anonymity in order to speak freely, though some were willing to share their thoughts on the record. And the results were nothing short of intriguing.
In a recent fan poll conducted by The Athletic, it was revealed that a majority of respondents believed that teams in no-state-income-tax states have an advantage. While some felt that changes should be made to level the playing field, others believed that the advantage was negligible.
So what do the players think?
“It is an advantage,” remarked one player from a Canadian team. “If you make $6 million in New York City or $6 million in Florida, I mean, it’s different.”
Another player added, “Look in the past who was winning Stanley Cups: Pittsburgh, Washington, Detroit. So I don’t think it’s a big advantage. Everything equals up.”
Indeed, the debate over tax advantages in the NHL is a complex one, with players offering a variety of perspectives on the issue. From the impact on team success to the implications for player mobility, the topic has sparked lively discussion among players and fans alike.
As one young Eastern Conference player pointed out, “No one was complaining when these teams were doing bad. Now they’re doing good and now people are pissed off.”
And in a moment of levity, one superstar player quipped, “I try to stay away from politics.”
The insights gathered from these player polls offer a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the NHL. As the season gets underway, fans can look forward to seeing how these issues play out on the ice. With the passion and dedication of the players on display, it promises to be an exciting season for hockey fans everywhere.
