The latest round of NHL labor talks broke down Thursday when the league rejected the players' proposal of an eight-year collective bargaining agreement.
After three days of labor talks aimed at reaching a new collective bargaining agreement, the league rejected the union's latest proposal and pulled several elements of its own off the negotiating table.
All optimism that a resolution was on the precipice evaporated, replaced quickly by fear that salvaging the season never has looked more bleak.
According to NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, all items offered to the NHLPA in the past week have been rescinded, along with any and all "Make Whole" payments.
It is unclear when the two sides will meet again, although NHLPA executive director Donald Fehr said the union was informed not to expect any meeting before the weekend.
Multiple sources also told ESPNNewYork.com that there is expected to be a serious discussion soon amongst the union on possible decertification or disclaimer of interest. It is believed the issue was discussed on the players' conference call Thursday morning, and that a vote could come together soon once readdressed.
Negotiating committee member Chris Campoli said decertification has
"always been an option."
"I think it's the obvious answer,"Campoli said.
"Although whether it's imminent, I don't know."
Fehr, who initially believed the two sides were close after the union's most recent offer Thursday night, said the NHLPA was notified via voicemail message that its proposal was "not acceptable."[See original news feed here]
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