
DISCUSSIONS CONTINUE IN HOPES OF SALVAGING A 2020-21 NHL SEASON
After recent reports that the NHL and the union representing players weren't even holding discussions, comes an update from NHL insider John Shannon. According to him, discussions are taking place, they just aren't getting very far.
"Sources from both the NHLPA and the NHL confirm there have been discussions, but no progress on re-visiting the terms of this summer’s Memoradum of Understanding on the CBA extension," said Shannon.
The main sticking point in the fact that owners wants players to defer more of their salary, something players assumed was finished when a new collective bargaining agreement was signed just a few months ago. The NHL continues to say it's hoping to begin the 2020-21 season on January 1st. However, given the fact that it's December 1st on Tuesday, that seems less and less likely. It's also worth noting that Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun stated Monday that "Langnau Tigers GM Marc Eichmann said in an email early Monday that [Ottawa Senators'] defenceman Erik Brannstrom remains in Switzerland and expects him to be there until before Christmas."
There is also still the issue of whether fans will be allowed back in arenas. That seems highly improbable for this season and that's a major concern for owners as the NHL relies on gate revenue much more heavily than teams in leagues like the NFL, MLB and NBA.
"Sources from both the NHLPA and the NHL confirm there have been discussions, but no progress on re-visiting the terms of this summer’s Memoradum of Understanding on the CBA extension," said Shannon.
The main sticking point in the fact that owners wants players to defer more of their salary, something players assumed was finished when a new collective bargaining agreement was signed just a few months ago. The NHL continues to say it's hoping to begin the 2020-21 season on January 1st. However, given the fact that it's December 1st on Tuesday, that seems less and less likely. It's also worth noting that Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun stated Monday that "Langnau Tigers GM Marc Eichmann said in an email early Monday that [Ottawa Senators'] defenceman Erik Brannstrom remains in Switzerland and expects him to be there until before Christmas."
There is also still the issue of whether fans will be allowed back in arenas. That seems highly improbable for this season and that's a major concern for owners as the NHL relies on gate revenue much more heavily than teams in leagues like the NFL, MLB and NBA.
TIM TUCKER
NOVEMBER 30, 2020 (12H36) |