Chris Johnson via twitter: CBA talks are set to start at 9:30 am this morning, with economic issues the main topic of the day.
Aaron Portzline via twitter: “People on both sides of the aisle believe next couple days in NHL-NHLPA talks could go a long way to determining how long stalemate lasts.” … “If NHL and NHLPA become hardened in their positions, demanding the other negotiate off their proposal, this could take a long time.” … “Can the two proposals be melded together? Certainly. And that will be the first sign of significant progress, first sign of hope.”
Dennis Bernstein via twitter: There is speculation out of Sweden that Red Wings defenseman Niklas Kronwall could join his brother Steffen with Lokomotiv in the KHL over Djurgarden of the SEL if there is a long lockout.
Bruce McCurdy of the Edmonton Journal: The Oilers lack depth at center, and are not very big. Their top 4 projects to be Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Sam Gagner, Shawn Horcoff, and Eric Belanger. If one was to get injured, Anton Lander may be their replacement. Chris VandeVelde could also be an option. Next down the list are centers Mark Zarcobello, Tyler Pitlick and Ryan Martindale.
Kyle Cicerella via twitter: The NHL has requested that the AHL use no-touch icing, they’ll test it out this year.