Fans of the Canadian who believe that the club’s owner, Geoff Molson, is leading the way in the National League (NHL) could be surprised when they read a ranking released a few days ago.
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Through an annual publication, The Hockey News magazine presented its list of the 100 most influential people in hockey. If the inclusion of the name of NHL commissioner, Gary Bettman, at the top of the hierarchy will not surprise anyone, that of Molson in 64th place may surprise more.
Several of his circuit counterparts are ahead of him, including Jeremy Jacobs (Boston Bruins, fourth), Murray Edwards (Calgary Flames, sixth), Craig Leipold (Minnesota Wild, seventh), Ted Leonsis (Washington Capitals, eighth) and Edward Rogers (Toronto Maple Leafs, 13th).
In addition, ranks 20 to 24 are occupied in order by David Blitzer (New Jersey Devils), Jeff Vinik (Tampa Bay Lightning), Christopher Ilitch (Detroit Red Wings), Henry Samueli (Anaheim Ducks) and Mark Chipman (Winnipeg Jets). Even Michael Andlauer (Ottawa Senators, 52nd), who owned shares in the CH before buying the Ottawa franchise, is ahead of Molson.
Behind Bettman, Players’ Association Director Marty Walsh is second, ahead of Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly. In fifth place, the name of Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid appears.
Note that Quebec agent Pat Brisson is in 12th place, while Pittsburgh Penguins forward Sidney Crosby is 15th. Two other active hockey players are in the top 50, namely Mitch Marner (Toronto, 30th) and Igor Shesterkin (New York Rangers, 41st).
Among the athletes from La Belle Province, Wild goalie Marc-André Fleury is 83rd and Victoire de Montréal forward Marie-Philip Poulin is 98th.
