Murray Wood: Who's hot... and who's not
Every Friday, Murray Wood takes a look back at the week's news and decides who's hot... and who's not. This week's list ...
The fans don’t like it. The NHL players’ association doesn’t like it. The International Ice Hockey Federation doesn’t like it. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) doesn’t like it.
None of the aforementioned like the fact NHL owners hold the power when it comes to Olympic participation in 2018, and beyond.
On Tuesday the NHL said the league’s players will not participate in the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea, and that the matter is “officially closed”. Whether it is or not is yet to be determined.
The IOC may ease up on licensing and marketing restrictions, which may alter the NHL’s stance. Talks could resume, there is still time.
The NHL was also wise to issue their statement now, knowing the playoffs will be front-and-centre next week.
Through it all, there is one thing fans have to remember. NHL owners hold the cards. The National Hockey League is the best hockey league in the world. If the IOC and/or the IIHF want the world’s best, the terms will suit the NHL.
