Bettman dashes hopes for quick end to NHL lockout

Posted By: Canadian Press · 10/18/2012 4:41:00 PM

TORONTO - NHL commissioner Gary Bettman says he's "thoroughly disappointed'' with the union's response to the league's latest collective agreement proposal.

Bettman says the NHL Players' Association tabled three counter-proposals today.

The league's offer, which calls for a full 82-game season, would see revenues split 50-50 between owners and players.

Bettman says the 50-50 proposal was the "best that we could do,'' but said the two sides are still far apart.

"None of the three variations of player share that they gave us even began to approach 50-50, either at all or for some long period of time,'' Bettman said.

"It's clear we're not speaking the same language.''

He says he is still hopeful the league can have a full season, but time is running out to make that happen.

"I am concerned based on the proposal that was made today that things are not progressing,'' he said. "To the contrary, I view the proposal made by the Players' Association in many ways a step backward.''

Bettman says no new talks are immediately scheduled.

The players have been locked out since Sept. 15.

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  1. Eric posted on 10/18/2012 06:30 PM
    Get rid of the NHL and the Hockey teams! All are way overpaid and the normal guy cannot afford to buy a ticket. Everyone is so greedy! Way too much money being spent and made in this sport or should I really say business.
  2. Willem B posted on 10/19/2012 07:54 AM
    Imagine that. John Q. Citizen gets to wait around with no pleasure from the game that belongs to everyone while spoiled and excsssively rich people fight over money.

    Gary Bettman and his ilk have hijacked the one pleasure that was truly ours and he turned it into a money machine for him and his rich buddies.

    Meanwhile... what do we get? Higher prices and prima donnas.

    Doesn't anybody love the game anymore?

    Shame on you, Gary Bettman. Shame. The best you could do? I seriously doubt it.

    You're still basking in your 2005 glory when the players capitulated and you figure you're going to do it again, all the while raking in more money.

    Why don't YOU get a pay cut? If they players do, so should you.
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