NHL

NHL OK with Palin appearance

By LARRY BROOKS

NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly today responded to The Post’s inquiry regarding the league’s position on Alaska Governor and GOP vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin dropping the ceremonial first puck at tomorrow’s Flyers’ home opener. “We do not view the Flyers’ invitation to Governor Palin to be politically motivated,” Daly said in an e-mail correspondence. “Governor Palin is a supporter of the sport, which she has proclaimed publicly.

“As a public figure who has a very public connection with hockey, her recent associations with the Flyers and other NHL franchises is not surprising, and in our view, not inappropriate.

“Participation of national politicians in team ceremonies in professional sports is far from unprecedented in our sport and occurs routinely in other sports, as well.”