Via Erik Erlendsson: Tampa Bay Lightning owner Jeff Vinik has been urging the NHL to grant the city of Tampa either an NHL All-Star Game or an NHL Entry Draft but he just can’t seem to win the league over.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said during a stop in Tampa for Game 2 of the Lightning’s first-round Stanley Cup playoff series that he is well aware of Vinik’s interest, but can do little about it at this time.

“Jeff actually vigorously reminded me of his interest (in those events) today when we were chatting, but it’s not something I’m in a position to announce or discuss at this time,’’ Bettman said.

“What Jeff has done here is nothing short of sensational, but there are lots of teams that also want these events and we have to do the best we can to address all the interest.’’