If the owners promised to pay the players the dollar value of the contracts they've signed them to and let the player's share of HRR shrink over time, the players would very likely sign up Wednesday afternoon. If the players were willing to let their share of HRR diminish to 50 per cent or so sooner rather than later, the owners might go for it, but the players are still trying to win battles the lost seven years ago.

There is no need to bring in labour boards to figure this out. There is no need for any of the posturing we can predictably anticipate later this week. There is no need to delay the start of the season.

There is only need for common sense, but each has taken turns putting the boots to that patient and it's on life support, resting not at all comfortably.

-Michael Grange of Sportsnet where you can continue reading about this topic.