NHL 2013 Thread
 

Here's the new digs....


Issue Number #1.....will the season even start on time. Bettman says that if there is not a new CBA on Sept. 15th, the owners will be locking the players out.

Fehr says the sides are "far apart" on basic economic issues.

I'm already nervous that things aren't going to start on time. After cancelling the whole 2004 season, can the NHL afford to do this again so soon?

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

No way the NHL can afford a lockout. They already struggle to get viewers. If this happens they will be losing a lot of money and interest.

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

Not looking good, who's at fault, the owners got everything they asked for last lockout now player salaries are up dramatically since 03, the rich owners are richer but the poor owners are poorer. The players (after feeling like they conceeded everything the owners wanted last time) won't be willing to make any concessions this time around. A lockout may be the only thing that saves a couple of the franchises from having to start cutting paychecks until ownership issues are fixed.

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

After the offseason the Wild have had, I desperately hope that it starts on time. People have been absolutely buzzing in the Twin Cities area since July about the team.

As for the league as a whole, they definitely can't afford another labor issue like they had before. The league is making a comeback in a number of markets, at least. But therea re those that it appreas to be struggling in. The question that needs to beasked is if those markets were viable markets to begin with. Move franchises? Contract franchises? What's the best things to do? I have no idea. I do think that realignment will help the league out, though. Bring back some of the more natural geographic rivalries (I have the old Norris Division in mind).

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

I'm with you on rekindling the old rivalries. Realignment is needed. Bettman doesn't get it though. I love watching hockey but it is primarily a regional sport. The league had the best product when it was a 21 team league. I doubt they can contract enough to get there, but eliminating two teams would help. 24-28 teams would be ideal. IMO the talent is spread too thin. That doesn't help the owners' position when it's time to negotiate. Guys who can score 25 goals are getting offered deals in the 9 digit range because there's no talent available. The poor wording of the existing CBA concerning long contracts is another reason. Any talent gets locked up for 10 years due to the lower cap hit. Maybe a soft cap like the NBA's is better. Not sure but trying to keep teams alive like the Panthers and the Coyotes look like a no win situation. If the league owns the teams, contract them, have a contraction draft and move on. End result is a better product. Problem is NHLPA won't go for it. Less players = less power/money for them.

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

The stars finally have what looks to be responsible ownership. Its too bad there is a good chance the season will be impacted like this. Crossing fingers things change quickly, but history suggests otherwise.

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

Hawks need Hossa for the start of the season. He says he'll be ready, but time will tell.

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

I am not going to waste any time following the process. I will ramp up once they settle. This is becoming too common for the major sports...

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

Yep me to..all the bull gets tiresome.

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

I agree as well but this is getting old especially when it is the only pro sport (besides the Broncos) that I truly follow. Hopefully they will get a CBA quickly but I am not holding out hope :2

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

Whether the season starts on time or a little late, one thing is certain: This is long overdue.

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

Wouldn't hold my breath this season either, Fred... ;)

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

+1

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

The owners wants to get the salaries down. Right now players get 57% of the revenue. It's funny that the NBA was at the exact same place this past year.
NHL owners want to see 46%. That won't happen. 50%, like the NBA players agreed to, would go over pretty easy, I think.
Who doesn't feel that 50/50 is fair, right?

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

At last nights game.....

http://i1091.photobucket.com/albums/...TrevorwLSC.jpg

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

You're almost certainly right. I was just covering my eventual "What did I tell you" basis, in case it did happen. Realistically, though, I think it should happen within 5 years or so, considering the core of players and the upcoming prospects. (Hey, there's no "fingers crossed" smilie?)

I'm for any agreement that would get the season started on time, but I don't count on it.

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

Cause the red wings are going to win it this year right tom? :)

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

Only if Lidstrom and Gordie Howe come out of retirement. ;)

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

I hope its not true but I have a feeling that if they play red wings will either just barely make the playoffs or fail miserably I don't think they are going to be the dominate team they once were

Re: NHL '12 - '13 Thread
 

Avs make Landeskog the youngest C in NHL history, at the age of 19. Hejduk gave up the C and moves to an A with Stastny.....