COMMISSIONER BETTMAN STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF ABE POLLIN

NEW YORK (November 24, 2009) – Gary Bettman, Commissioner of the National Hockey League, today released the following statement regarding the passing away of former Washington Capitals owner Abe Pollin:

“Abe Pollin always wanted the best for his teams, for the fans and for Washington — and all of those passions combined to create the arena that revitalized the entire downtown community. He was a man of commitment and principle and we all will miss him. The National Hockey League family sends sincere condolences to his loved ones.”