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Don Cherry: Gary Bettman 'saved the season'

Grapes is handing out top marks to the NHL commissioner following Sunday's tentative end to the lockout.

Coach's Corner star Don Cherry was among those busy tweeting about the end of the NHL labour stalemate on Sunday morning, and he was quick to credit Gary Bettman for getting a deal done.

The Hockey Night In Canada commentator said through his @CoachsCornerCBC Twitter account: "For all you people that are going to watch NHL hockey this year, make no mistake about it, you're watching it because of Gary Bettman.

"Bettman was the guy that had to pull the trigger whether this was done or not. He saved the season."

The tentative deal was announced jointly by Bettman and NHLPA executive director Donald Fehr shortly after 6 a.m. ET in New York City, following overnight bargaining sessions.

On Saturday, Cherry tweeted he felt that a deal was on the way.

"I know it's doom and gloom time in the CBA talks. Some stay neutral, others stay silent and others say it's over. I on the other hand say... There will be a season and it will be terrific! I have always been taught to be positive and if you're wrong suffer the slings and arrows."