With the deadline date for the lockout quickly approaching, there is more and more optimism coming from the meetings. There are still issues that need to be sorted out, but some are reporting that a deal is “very close.
Source “tentative deal could be done within 24 hrs or #NHLPA could serve #NHL notice to disclaim early as 2day. Present meeting is huge.
— Nick Kypreos (@RealKyper) January 5, 2013
For the first time in months there is optimism surrounding these talks #NHL #NHLPA
— Bruce Garrioch (@SunGarrioch) January 5, 2013
Easily the most optimistic I’ve seen the assembled hockey media since this #NHL lockout began. Guys are gonna get the bends if this fails.
— Dale Arnold (@DaleEArnold) January 5, 2013
While it has been a roller coaster ride over the past few months, today has seemed to hit a new high…but be cautious. We’ve seen how quickly this ride can be derailed. With only days left to reach an agreement, it’s important to be cautiously optimistic.
If, in fact, a season does happen, it will be around 48 games in length. It will be much different than a regular, 82 game season, but hockey would be back. At least fans would have the NHL for half of a season.
The next 24 hours COULD be huge for hockey. Hopefully, they will.