from Elliotte Friedman of CBC,

This process needs a shot of adrenaline, like Uma Thurman's heart in Pulp Fiction.

Last week, after both sides angrily walked away, the NHL considered cancelling games right up to Jan. 14. But, there are times for the hammer and times for the velvet. Both sides are sufficiently angry at each other, and being overly punitive doesn't help.

When the union suggested mediation, the league backed away from two extra weeks of cancellations. After watching Wednesday's farce, I kind of wish they'd done it. At least we'd be at the brink. Something would have to happen or the season would be over.

For the same reason, I'd like to see the players file their "Disclaimer of Interest." There is some nervousness about it, because the NHL will likely respond with the wrath of Zeus - despite a worst-case scenario of billions in damages.

Whatever happens, it probably brings about the end of this - one way or another. This is the most self-destructive behaviour ever, and I grew up with four teenage sisters.

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