NHL Lockout not going anywhere

Hockey fans from all around are wondering why must there be a stoppage of play—especially after the 2011-12 NHL season.

Since the last time this scenario presented itself, the NHL has become an exciting spectator sport.  The assurance that if you go to a game, a fight breaks out is enough to reel any sports fan in. They also promised higher scoring games.  In the end, you are guaranteed a very entertaining game.  That is until the big executives break out the books.  Why must good things come to an end?

The last NHL lockout occurred seven years ago.  At that time, history was made when the entire 2004-05 season was cancelled. But with the addition of the shootout and stricter rule enforcement, as well as elimination of the “2 line pass” rule and sizing down goaltenders’ pads helped to bring hockey to an all-time high in fan support.

In order to keep the support from their fans, the Players Association has to agree on a salary cut or be locked out.

There’s not much to look forward to by going deeper into the lockout. Both parties are still far apart on a 50/50 split of the 3 billion dollar revenue, so they are still quite a way from reaching a compromise.

Honestly, it doesn’t appear that the 2012-13 season will begin on the scheduled date of October 11th, much like last year’s NBA lockout. But when the players’ salaries cease, however, players will begin to feel the pressure to get back on the ice so check-writing can continue.  If, on the other hand, the players feel strongly about losing income, they may just end up seeking to play in other leagues or countries and let the lockout continue.  After all the players do want to get out on the ice, even if it’s in a different area of the world.

With that said, until an agreement hits the table, the only fight we have to look forward to is between the NHLPA and their owners.