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I'm stunned that a deal wasn't made by today.
The sides seem close. Fehr banked on a profitable NHL (versus 2004) as the justification in believing that the owners want the season played. THe owners now have skin in the game. I assumed that with the movement seen earlier in the week that Fehr would play give and take with the owners and hammer out a deal.
Now? I'm not sure about the players end game? It made sense to move to a settlement when we reached the point of diminishing returns for the players. At this point, I believe the players made a strategic mistake. They alienated the moderate owners. If Jacobs was pissed, who cares? Tanenbaum? Not a wise move.
IMO, The owners are done with negotiating unless an aggressive move is made by the players. I'm not sure the players have many allies left in the NHL.
I have respect for the players, giving up money in exchange for principles. I believe they made their stand and pushed back supporting their own position. Now, what's left other than to push the owners to cancel the season?
Yes, the negotiation is all about power. Yes, the players lost in 2004 and maybe this is their payback to the owners? I am wondering if they wish to light their own house on fire if it will spread to the mansion next door? Macho? I guess. Practical? NO.
The owners will rebuild their house without much effort. The players??? I'm still not sure what they win from here on out?
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