from Terry Frei of the Denver Post,

So facing reality, here's the reason this lockout becomes more of an abomination every day. More so than in the other pro sports that have been through labor turmoil, this is a case of a league and its owners notonlytaking its fan base for granted. From commissioner Gary Bettman on down, the NHL is sticking out its tongue at its fans. And, yes, that's the nice way to put it.

It is a unique fan base, largely made up of discerning general sports followers who have a special affinity for hockey. At times, that is bothersome, especially when "new" fans trying to learn about and embrace the sport are given the impression this is a private club with a password at the door. (This week's password, in honor of the Marx Brothers, is "Swordfish.")

But fans are being asked to buy a bunch of malarkey, and they're too smart to do it.

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