View From the Outside: Settle Up, NHL Players

I read the sports section every day, but I admit I’m not a big hockey fan. I think my lack of interest qualifies me to render an objective opinion on the current NHL situation.

In previous strikes/lockouts in the NBA, NFL and Major League Baseball, I’d say that blame was spread (roughly) evenly between the players and owners. Not so the NHL. I’d say the blame rests entirely on the players’ absurd refusal to accept a salary cap.

The facts are simple: Hockey players do not deserve to be in the same ballpark of salaries as basketball, football and baseball players, not because they aren’t at the same level of athleticism, but because their sport doesn’t generate anywhere near the same revenue.

Wake up, NHL players, and accept a salary cap. It works in the NBA. It will work in the NHL.

Joseph Gold

Torrance