Krejci: Comments on Bettman did not reflect on Bruins

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David Krejci made headlines two days ago when he said during an interview in his native Czech language that NHL commissioner Gary Bettman was a shame for the entire hockey world and treats us like animals".

The Bruins' playmaking center and Czech Republic native also took issue with the large pay raise to 8 million per season that Bettman has enjoyed during the last seven years of the expired Collective Bargaining Agreement.

But Krejci -- who is entering a three-year, 15.75 million deal with the Bruins despite never scoring 25 goals or topping 73 points during his five NHL seasons -- clarified his comments in an e-mail exchange with CSNNE.com, and wanted to set the record straight on those inflammatory things said in the heat of a postgame dressing room.

I regret my recent comments about the lockout which were made flippantly in the locker room after our last game. I did not intend for them to be recorded, said Krejci. Specifically, I have been treated very well by the Boston Bruins and wish to confirm that my comments should not reflect on my club in any way. I regret any inference to the contrary.

One thing Krejci didnt do was deny the words or claim that something was lost in translation as some other European players have in recent weeks (see Michael Nuevirth).

So give the Bs center for at least taking accountability for some words said in haste. Krejci went to say that hes enjoying his time playing for HC Pardubice in his native Czech Republic, but I want to be back in the NHL soon.

That desire to return to North America was clear in his pointed remarks about Bettman and the NHL over the weekend.

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