The NHL recently finished off one of its most contentious trade deadlines ever. Bo Horvat, of the Vancouver Canucks, was traded to the New York Islanders last month, while Patrick Kane, formerly of the Chicago Blackhawks, was traded to the New York Rangers only a few days ago. The New York public may have just been stunned by a recent interview, despite the fact that their NHL teams are enjoying a great year.

Michael Kay, the play-by-play announcer for the New York Yankees, joined Stephen A. Smith on Thursday’s First Take to discuss the impending MLB season. A question posed by presenter Molly Qerim to the panel inquired as to which of the current New York teams has the best chance of winning a title first. Following much debate, one of the greatest names in sports, Smith, released a statement that left NHL fans feeling let down.

Why did this statement matter so much to the NHL world?

Michael Kay, when questioned by Molly Qerim on the New York Rangers’ recent deal for Patrick Kane, sided with the team. The fact that the Rangers have assembled a formidable roster in preparation for the Stanley Cup Playoffs was a major factor in his decision to root for them. The Rangers were brought up in conversation, but the other two participants said, “They don’t count,” and quickly changed the subject. Yet, there are other reasons why the hockey world was let down by a single comment.

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The major cause of the community’s dissatisfaction was the NHL’s declining viewership, as the popularity of hockey in the United States continues to wane. Worse yet, ESPN is one of two networks that now have NHL rights, sharing broadcasting responsibilities with TNT. One of the best hockey clubs being knocked out by the largest rightsholder and biggest TV personality, weeks before the playoffs begin, is just horrible for the audience.

Twitter erupted as hockey fans united over this

Awful Announcing’s tweet brought together hockey lovers from all around the globe. As a whole, the hockey community has been tarnished by statements full of dismay. Here are some comments to prove it.

This user pointed out Smith’s acknowledgment of hockey with this bold statement, saying, “Stephen A saying ‘I love Gary Bettman’ is all I need to know about his hockey knowledge”. Out of all the angry comments, this NHL fan just wants to know the reason behind this statement, saying, “They own TV rights but love to hate on the league. Makes absolutely zero logical sense.”

A straightforward reply was found on this tweet that said, “This is just embarrassing.”Another fan left a stern reply, saying, “And if the Rangers don’t count to them, then you REALLY know the @WNBA NY Liberty don’t.”

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As a hockey fan, how do you feel about the sport being ignored on an international broadcasting channel? Let us know in the comment section.