CBA talks could begin between league and NHLPA on Friday -NHL offseason Update
For the fans, the sooner a new mutual understanding on the renewing or redefining of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which is set to expire on September 15, 2012, the better, but unfortunately, it is not always that easy.
According to latest reports, talks between the National Hockey League (NHL) and NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) could kick off as soon as this upcoming Friday, giving both sides ample times to discuss the labour issue out.
In advance, it has been learnt that the NHLPA has already drawn out their boundaries and up to what extent they will be ready to negotiate. Along with that, the NHLPA has decided also to go in with full force instead of in a laid back style.
"We had a lot of good discussions about where our priorities are," Washington Capitals right wing, Troy Brouwer, said. "That's kind of why it broke down into the groups, just trying to educate ourselves a little bit more. A smaller group, it's going to be
talk and share ideas."
Some representatives from the NHLPA side think that being lenient last time cost them a whole season, which is why being strict in their demands this time around is crucial to a smooth running hockey year.
"We gave a number of concessions last time that cost us a season," veteran Chicago Blackhawks defenseman, Steve Montador, said. "Nobody wants to miss a season of hockey -- the players, the fans, the owners. The game has made too many positive strides in
the last seven years. But at the same time, with the growth of the game and the way it's been.”
Fortunately for a clause in the current CBA, the regular season can continue until an agreement is reached by both parties, but it also does not ensure that if there is a deadlock.
Donald Fehr will be leading the NHLPA and with the vast amount of experience he has with the Major League Baseball (MLB) union, his negotiation tactics are some that experts term to be the best in the business.
Commissioner Gary Bettman will obviously be representing the league and if the hockey pundits are right, a new agreement should be reached earlier or by September later on this year.
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