NHL Locks Out Again!

For the 2nd time in 8 years, the NHL is in a lockout.  The league officially locked the players out last night because the NHL and the NHLPA couldn't come to an agreement on a new labor contract.

And for the 2nd time in 8 years, I find myself seriously pissed off at both the NHL and the NHLPA.  They think the fans are going to come back after another round of their bullshit?  I'm tired of the two not being able to settle their differences and come up with a solution, when they've had a long time to work this deal out.

So if you're a hockey fan, your options are:

• AHL
• ECHL
• college hockey
• watching your kids play
• beer leagues

I play hockey in a beer league.  I PAY for the privilege to play on my team.  There are no sponsors, no contracts, etc.  We play because we love the game.  The NHL has forgotten where their loyalty is.  It should be with the FANS and those that love the game.

The players will simply go play in Europe and Russia and be welcomed with open arms.  It will hurt some of the lower tier players that get displaced as a result.   Who gets hurt in the end?  The fans.  Try explaining to your 5 year old why Alex Ovechkin isn't on the ice for the Washington Capitals.  Explain to millions of kids in Canada why the Leafs, Canadiens, and Canucks are not playing.  It's a no-win situation.

I am thoroughly disappointed in both sides.