BetMGM adds NHL MVP to ambassador roster amid Illinois push

BetMGM has confirmed the appointment of Edmonton Oilers star Connor McDavid as its latest brand ambassador. The National Hockey League’s reigning MVP and All-Star center will feature in BetMGM’s upcoming marketing campaigns, promotions, social media content, and will appear at fan-facing events as part of his role with the sportsbook operator. McDavid burst onto the NHL scene in 2016, becoming the League’s youngest-ever captain at 19 years old and subsequently winning the MVP award multiple times. He is widely considered to be one of the sport’s best players. McDavid joins NHL legend Wayne Gretzky, ex-NFL running back Chris Johnson, and NBA Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett who all serve as brand ambassadors for the BetMGM sportsbook. “I am very excited to partner with BetMGM as they continue to shape the future of sports betting,” said McDavid. “It’s also a real honor to be on the same BetMGM team with star athletes like Wayne Gretzky and Kevin Garnett, both of whom I admire very much,” he added. BetMGM chief revenue officer Matt Prevost welcomed the addition of McDavid to the sportsbook’s roster of marketing personalities. “The accomplishments that Connor already has earned on the ice is astonishing and we are excited to welcome him to the BetMGM family. We look forward to working together to engage BetMGM players across North America,” Prevost said. Elsewhere BetMGM has successfully launched its sportsbook in Illinois following receipt of approval from the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB). BetMGM’s debut in the northeastern state comes as Illinois waives its in-person registration requirements for placing bets. This means bettors will no longer need to go to a land-based casino in the state to place wagers via computers or mobile phones. “This launch marks a significant milestone for BetMGM as we enter one of the country’s biggest sports betting markets,” BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt said. “We look forward to working with the state of Illinois to bring its passionate sports fans a new, innovative, and unique sports betting experience,” Greenblatt added.