August 21 (UPI) – The NHL condemned “insensitive and insulting” remarks made by NBC Sports analyst Mike Milbury about women during the network’s broadcast Thursday night.
The National Hockey League condemns the insensitive and insulting remark made by Mike Milbury during [Thursday] the broadcast of the night and we communicated our feelings to NBC, “the league said in a statement Friday.” The comments did not reflect the values and dedication of the NHL to make our game more inclusive and hospitable for all. ”
Tidens The NBC telecast of the New York Islanders’ overwhelming victory over the Washington Capitals, Milbury and fellow analyst Brian Boucher explored the benefits of the league’s postseason bubble amid the coronavirus pandemic.
“When you think about it, it’s a great environment – if you enjoy playing and enjoying long time with your teammates, it’s a perfect place,” Boucher said.
“Not even every woman here to disturb your concentration,” Milbury replied.
In a statement released Friday by NBC Sports, Milbury asked for his comment, saying it was a “regrettable mistake.”
“It was not my intention not to respect anyone,” Milbury said. “I tried to be irreverent and took it a step too far. It was a sad mistake that I take seriously.”
Later Friday, a NBC Sports spokesman told the Washington Post that Milbury would not call Friday’s game between the Philadelphia Flyers and Montreal Canadiens. The network said it was disappointed with “Milbury’s insensitive remark”.
Milbury, 68, has previously been flagged for making absurd remarks about women during broadcasts. In 2011, he referred to Vancouver Canucks players Daniel and Henrik Sedin as “Thelma and Louise.”
In the 2012 season, broadcaster Pittsburgh Penguins coach Dan Bylsma said “he must have taken his skirt off his head and been there” during a change in the game.
Milbury played 12 seasons in the NHL – all for the Boston Bruins. He later served as assistant general manager and head coach for the Bruins, as well as general manager and head coach of the Islanders.
.
