Yes, i was under the impression you had to be retired.Players - the guys who ARE the game - have to wait five years after they have retired before they are even eligible to be considered for the HOF. I think only Gretzky, Lemieux and Bobby Orr had that condition waived and were inducted immediately, but still, AFTER they had officially retired as active players. So while I dont argue whether or not Bettman has grown the game, I would say he should not be inducted in the HOF while still active and still serving as the commissioner.
For a player, referee, or linesman to be nominated, the person must have been retired for a minimum three years. Builders may be "active or inactive".Players - the guys who ARE the game - have to wait five years after they have retired before they are even eligible to be considered for the HOF. I think only Gretzky, Lemieux and Bobby Orr had that condition waived and were inducted immediately, but still, AFTER they had officially retired as active players. So while I dont argue whether or not Bettman has grown the game, I would say he should not be inducted in the HOF while still active and still serving as the commissioner.