NBC Sports analyst Mike Milbury on Saturday said he was stepping aside for the remainder of the Stanley Cup playoffs following a controversial comment he made about women last week during a game.
“In light of the attention caused by my recent remark, I have decided to step away from my role at NBC Sports for the remainder of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. I do not want my presence to interfere with the athletes as they try to win the greatest trophy in sports,” Milbury said in a statement.
The National Hockey League on Friday criticized Milbury for the comment, which he made during Thursday night’s Capitals-Islanders game.
At one point, the network commentators were talking about advantages of the playoff bubble amid the pandemic, NBC Sports co-host Brian Boucher saying, “If you think about it, it’s a terrific environment with regard to — if you enjoy playing and enjoy being with your teammates for long periods of time, it’s a perfect place.”
Related Stories
Which is when Milbury replied with “Not even any woman here to disrupt your concentration.” The comment was met with severe backlash on social media instantly.
Milbury has since apologized for the remark. “I sincerely apologize for making the comment. It was not my intention to disrespect anyone. I was trying to be irreverent and took it a step too far. It was a regrettable mistake that I take seriously,” he said in a statement.
In that same statement, the network said it was “disappointed about Mike’s insensitive comment and have addressed it with him.”
Nonetheless, the league made it clear it was not pleased.
“The National Hockey League condemns the insensitive and insulting comment made by Mike Milbury during last night’s broadcast, and we have communicated our feelings to NBC,” the statement reads. “The comment did not reflect the NHL’s values and commitment to make our game more inclusive and welcoming to all.”
It is unclear what, if any, discipline Milbury may face.
A statement from the National Hockey League. pic.twitter.com/YCOTcoaK5l
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) August 21, 2020
Aug. 22, 2:42 p.m.: Updated with new comment from Milbury.
