Lightning star Victor Hedman couldn’t keep it together after US President Joe Biden called Gary Bettman “Gary Batman” during his visit to the White House in Tampa. (Photo via Twitter/@greg_price11)
During their Monday off, the Tampa Bay Lightning were honored at the White House by US President Joe Biden, a custom that has been extended annually to include champions from various major North American professional sports leagues. In many ways, it was a nondescript event for the president, save for one hilarious slip.
Biden mistakenly referred to Commissioner Gary Bettman as “Gary Batman” and proceeded without even thinking to correct himself.
We’re all Victor Hedman here, laughing at Biden’s expense – obviously he’s not the avid sports fan that previous US presidents have been. Despite Biden’s mistakes, everyone seemed to have had a good time.
“Pretty much everyone was on board and everyone who could make it – former players and stuff – they all tried to make it here,” said defender Ryan McDonagh. “It’s just a great tradition that we have: you become part of a championship team, you get to go to the White House and you get to meet the President.”
McDonagh, who has represented the United States in several international competitions, spoke on behalf of the Lightning. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lightning were unable to attend White House ceremonies as soon as hoped, a point not lost on Captain Steven Stamkos.
“It took a long time,” Stamkos said. “We weren’t sure if we would get this opportunity, but it was definitely worth the wait.”
For the Lightning, Monday’s visit was an opportunity to reconsider their bid for a third straight Stanley Cup win and to reflect on back-to-back wins in the rearview mirror.
“The good thing about our group is that the hunger is still there,” McDonagh said. “We don’t need extra motivation, but it certainly increases the anticipation for the final week of the regular season and before the playoffs begin.”
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