Report Decries Election of Stein to Hockey Hall

Former NHL president Gil Stein “improperly manipulated” his nomination and election to the Hockey Hall of Fame and should not be inducted, according to a league report released Tuesday.

Stein, 65, who was elected to the Hall on March 30, says he disagrees with the report’s conclusion but will decline induction, although he did not specify his reasons. Stein said he notified Commissioner Gary Bettman of his decision several months ago.

The report hinges on interviews with King owner Bruce McNall, who is chairman of the NHL’s Board of Governors. McNall said he had been “sandbagged” by Stein.

The report says that Stein approached McNall last year and told him of his desire to be elected to the Hall. Stein denies prodding McNall to further his nomination.

According to the report, McNall wrote David Taylor, president of the Hall, recommending Stein’s nomination in the “builder” category. Stein then called Taylor and told him to expect a letter from McNall.

Meanwhile, Stein had installed three of his subordinates on the Hall’s board of directors.