The news about Wayne Gretzky, his wife Janet Jones and Assistant Coach, Rick Tocchet being in a gambling scandal probably would not be such an issue if Gretzky was not the serving as the Executive Director of the Canadian Olympic Hockey Team.  And it still would probably not be as big an issue if the Olympics were not taking place at the present moment.  However, there is evidence that Tocchet was involved in a widespread gambling ring, which will be investigated nonetheless.

As for Gretzky, he denies any involvement, and says that he only wants to focus on the Olympic games.  In an impromptu press conference after a practice session for Team Canada, Gretzky was asked about the scandal and allegations, in which he replied that he had taken no part in any gambling, that his family has been going through a hard time because of the press, and that his only concern right now are the Olympic Games and the players of Team Canada.

Regarding the players, Gretzky is confident the news of the supposed gambling scandal will not be a distraction for them.  He responded to these questions in a protective manner, citing team members will be somewhat isolated from the press in Torino anyways.  As for the National Hockey League, it is the supposed object of affection for the illegal bets that have already been tied to Tocchet and a two New Jersey residents.