A lot has been made of NHL owners and their apparent greed during these negotiations. Of course, from an economics standpoint, it’s not really greed at all; it’s simply a desire to keep the business afloat and healthy. That sort of rational stance doesn’t resonate well with many who just want to see hockey being played again.
With news breaking recently that Tampa Bay Lightning owner Jeff Vinik will be joining the labor negotiation talks, fan backlash has been constant. Outside Tampa, the notion that a small-market owner is taking a major role in labor talks just isn’t sitting well. It’s hard to blame those who view the situation this way. Vinik is a new owner who, as Eklund puts it, is going to do whatever Boston Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs says. That really isn’t an overly glowing endorsement of our owner and his ability to negotiate effectively.
All that said - it’s time to actually look at what Mr. Vinik has done for the Lightning even with the lockout in effect. First of all, he has maintained confidence from his players. Vincent Lecavalier recently expressed a sense of relief and happiness that Vinik is getting involved in negotiations. Billed as an owner who will listen and understand player concerns, this certainly bodes well for his rapport within the NHL family. Simply put, most of the Lightning players have expressed that they believe Vinik wants to get playing.
From the perspective of the front office staff, Vinik is arguably the perfect owner. Unlike other NHL franchises, the Lightning have not been forced to lay off staff or rollback salaries. Vinik has maintained his commitment to the Lightning family. That sort of simple, effective initiative speaks volumes about him as both a person and a business man. Simply put – he cares.
Of course, there is much more to Mr. Vinik that his ownership of the Lightning and involvement in labor talks. While other NHL franchises are cutting back on their community initiatives, the Lightning and Vinik have remained front and center. It’s hard to go through the week without hearing about the Lightning brand in the community. Vinik made a commitment to donate $50,000 on a regular basis to the Community Hero program. This program identifies community minded individuals who give up their time and money to help others. The donations from Mr. Vinik have gone on to help community centers, the Make-a-Wish Foundation, education and many other great causes. Just last week, the Lightning announced the 10th recipient this year. So, despite revenues not coming in through traditional means, Vinik and the Lightning have worked hard to remain a staple in the community; it’s honorable, commendable and respected by all.
So, in conclusion, while it’s easy to hate on the owners for their part in negotiations, take a moment to consider all the good our owner in Tampa is doing for the community, his employees and the franchise as a whole. Many people are struggling as a result of the lockout, but Jeff Vinik is doing everything he can to minimize the effects on the Lightning family. Next time you’re about to send a tweet spewing owner hate, or a comment here about your distaste for a specific owner, remember all the good some of these gentlemen have done and continue to do in your community. From one fan to another – I assure you that these guys are not giant greed machines; they want to get playing just as much as anyone.
As always, thanks for reading! Please PM me blog topics you’d like to see during the lockout.
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