So what term is the NHL using these days to describe scabs?? 'Legitimate Business Alternatives'.

That's how NHL VP and chief lawyer Bill Daly described replacement players while defending the league's complaints to the National Labor Relations Board.

"clearly it's important and prudent for the National Hockey League to make sure that there are no illegal impediments to legitimate business alternatives it might have," Daly noted. "Obviously, the use of replacement players or the use of cross-over players, in the event we were to unilaterally implement new terms and conditions of employment are business alternatives that are open to us."

Yet Daly insists, in that very same article, that the league is determined to resolve the lockout through a collective bargaining agreement with the NHLPA.

BUT, he says the NHL isn't going to move much off its position.

"We are very committed to an objective, and we think that objective is necessary for the long-term future and viability and health of this sport"

So basically, they say they want to work it out with the union, but only if the union agrees to the objective to which the league remains committed. Fascinating.

Either way, the two sides are now scheduled to meet next Monday at an undisclosed location.

So, if you thought that was ridiculous, wait until you hear this one. The NHL is contemplating increasing the size of the nets. Well, not only increase the size, but maybe curve the posts outwards. And maybe make the pipes triangle instead of round, because the puck might bounce more.

If you think it is out of the realm of possibility, think again. They have gone as far as to create two different prototypes to show to the GM's at the April meetings.

You thought I was done? No way. They are also going to implement the shootout at the end of overtime to determine a winner. I can't express in words how much I hate the idea of a shootout.

So if the NHL gets under way next year, here is what you might have: Replacement players, curved nets, streamlined-and-tucked-in-jerseys, blue ice, orange 'blue' lines, and shootouts.

Folks, the NHL as we know it is almost officially dead.

HDH

Recent Articles Versus Playoff Coverage Road Trip Pics

Web Hockeybird.com