NHL commissioner Gary Bettman can be deposed in concussions lawsuit

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NHL commissioner Gary Bettman can be deposed in concussions lawsuit

The Associated Press Published Tuesday, May 5, 2015 10:38PM EDT

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, speaking to media prior to game three NHL playoffs between the Winnipeg Jets' and Anaheim Ducks in Winnipeg on April 20, 2015. (Trevor Hagan / The Canadian Press)

Text:

ST. PAUL, Minn. - NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman can be deposed to give testimony in a concussion lawsuit, a U.S. District Court ruled Tuesday.

Former players suing the NHL over concussion-related problems have accused the league of blocking access to Bettman for testimony in the case. The court told the plaintiffs they could depose Bettman as early as July.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs said the court found that Bettman "possesses unique knowledge concerning concussion injuries."

The league had sought to have the federal class-action complaint dismissed, but that motion was denied in March.

The plaintiffs are seeking unspecified damages and medical monitoring for neurological disorders. They've argued the league had the knowledge and resources to better prevent head trauma, failed to properly warn players of such risks, and promoted violent play that led to their injuries.