NHL has come out and said the proposals today, not close and a step backwards.. So why the optimism still high? It's the difference between what is said publicly and what's not. Public statements during these negotiations are meant to be heard. Part of the game.

The sides have work to do.. We knew this..

Remember this is a negotiation that can go down to the 11th hour and likely will. It's not philosophical. it's not a salary cap. It's a dollar figure..

Also as I reported in my last blog there appears to be confirmation that all 4 counter proposals step down in increments...towards the 50% target.

I have to say I expected more negativity on the first day of "real" negotiations...I have adjusted the meter accordingly..

On the Optimism Meter...

The most common question I get asked is "how optimistic are you that we will see hockey this year?" So with the PA and NHL meeting almost 2 hours later I put together this graphic which I will continue to post this week as my photo, and change it based on what I hear...

Stay tuned for updates...

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