Well, you know . . .

Exciting, isn't it? If the rumblings in the hockey world are true, it seems that it is down to just a matter of days now, not weeks or months, before we see the official end of this lockout. They NHL and the NHLPA were back at the table yesterday, a holiday here in the States. Perhaps that is an indication that they are looking to get this done before the end of the week?

If word is to come down by the weekend, I expect it by Thursday. There is a little trick in the news world . . . if you want to bury a story, release it on Friday afternoon, as the Saturday papers, particularly in the summer, are the least read. And of course, people watch television less on weekends than during the week. So if Bettman and company want to make this a big deal, expect it on Thursday in time for the Friday papers. On the other hand, be prepared to wait through the weekend, because no one really knows what the NHL's plans are.

Terry Jones of the Edmonton Sun reports that one television network (I assume it is a Canadian network) sent emails to its reporters and cameramen, directing that they should not take any days off this week in anticipation of a media blitz.

Al Strachan of the Toronto Sun writes about how GM's will have to learn the new system and build a team in a very short period of time. Al points out that Devils' GM Lou Lamoriello will have an advantage, as he has been an integral part of the negotiation team, and will already have a knowledge of how the salary system will work. Al also tries to give us an idea of what will happen once a deal in announced.

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun goes over some of the rumored numbers of the new CBA, and thinks it could be a big shock to the players.

The Rodent writes about the problems NHL teams may face in trying to sign European players in the new CBA environment.

Spector mentions Rodent in his Foxsports column today while discussing the Post's report about Karel Rachunek. Spector discusses a bunch of other player movement rumors.

Bird asks a burning question in the newest Birdcage: Messier, yea or nay?

EDIT: Forgive me, because I simply missed this article from the New York Times this morning. Bill Daly and Ted Saskin both sent emails over to the Times yesterday. Each indicated that there is still a lot of work to be done. So perhaps we are not going to hear anything this week. Or, it is just rehearsed rhetoric that all of these guys are spewing? Who knows?

HDH

Recent Articles Versus Playoff Coverage Road Trip Pics

Web Hockeybird.com