The Avs - Blackhawks games are so much more enjoyable to watch than other games. They're so fast paced. Can't stand games with the Kings. And they let the Kings get away with so much. They're like the Bruins of the west. They're so dependent on the officials giving defense so much leeway. One thing you have to respect about the Blackhawks, is they're still winning big even with the way games are officiated favoring most other teams. The officiating is even worse in the playoffs.
Bettman must like officiating that favors low scoring games. He must think if players score more goals, they'll want more money from the owners. He must think hockey has a limit to its appeal and is conceding it's a fringe sport. So instead of favoring guys with skill, they'd rather level things out by giving defensemen so much leeway.