Kings’ Fans Are Like Negotiators: Some Are for Strike, Some Against

As always, there were plenty of fans at the Kings’ Culver City practice rink Wednesday, but they weren’t in a cheering mood on the first day of the NHL strike.

“I’m on the fans’ side,” said Isaac Bernato of Los Angeles, clutching a strip of playoff tickets. “This should have been negotiated before the season started or after the playoffs.

“I’m sitting here with a lot of tickets, and I don’t know what I’m going to do with them.”

Bernato said this work stoppage wouldn’t soon be forgotten.

“The only way they can make it up to us,” he said, “is to bring a Stanley Cup to L.A. Then, the fans will forget.”

Flo Lawrence of Venice feels a little differently.

“I’m behind them,” he said. “Even if we miss the playoffs, I hope they get what they’re after.

“With the popularity of trading cards and other merchandise, somebody is making money. These guys (hockey players) need to get up to speed to match the other sports in money. If this is what it takes, I’m 100% behind them. I’m 34. I figure I’ve got 40 years to watch hockey. If they make their stand now, it’ll help hockey in the long run. I love these guys.”

So does 8-year-old Robert Berry, who was on hand Wednesday to get autographs.

“I think if the owners don’t pay, they (the players) should go on strike,” he said. “It will make me sad, but we tape a lot of games. I can always watch those.”