Following controversy over his on-air sexist remarks, Mike Milbury has chosen to step down from his role as an analyst for NBC Sports by the end of the current National Hockey League playoffs (NHL).
The former Islanders general manager and former NHL hockey player hinted Thursday that women would only be a distraction for players in bubble towns.
“In light of the reaction to my recent remark, I have decided to step down from my role at NBC Sports for the remainder of the Stanley Cup playoffs. I don’t want my presence to distract from the athletes who are trying to win the biggest trophy in sport, ”Milbury said Saturday via NBC.
Milbury got into the hot water during an exchange with co-host John Forslund about the unique environment of NHL bubbles.
“When you think about it, it’s a great environment if you like to play and be with your teammates for a long period of time. This is the perfect place, ”Forslund said.
“There isn’t even a woman to come and disturb your concentration,” Milbury added.
The NHL reacted quickly to the comments, which generated a lot of backlash on social media.
“The National Hockey League condemns the callous and insulting comments made by Mike Milbury during (Thursday’s) airing and we communicated our feelings to NBC,” the league said on Friday. This comment does not reflect the values of the NHL and its commitment to making hockey a more inclusive and welcoming sport for all. ”
