Philadelphia Flyers owner Ed Snider may be tiring of the current stalemate between the NHL and its Players' Association.
Sources tell Philadelphia Daily News writer Frank Seravalli that Snider soured on the process when it became likely that there would be no deal in time to start an abbreviated season on Dec. 1.
According to Seravalli, Snider - who serves on the executive committee of the NHL's Board of Governors - is essentially of the opinion that the final deal that the owners will eventually get on revenue division and players' contract rights will not be as good as what NHL commissioner Gary Bettman originally envisioned. That being the case, writes Seravalli, the owners may only win the battle for a better revenue split, and still have to accept an angry fan base and sponsorship woes following a lockout that is in its third month.
Snider later issued a statement disputing the Daily News column.
"An article appearing in today's Philadelphia Daily News is absolutely erroneous," Snider said. "I am a solid supporter of National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman and the League in this unfortunate situation.
"Like all fans, players, owners and League officials, I am extremely hopeful that an agreement can be reached and we can eventually be playing hockey again soon. League rules prevent me and all owners from making any comments on the labor negotiations. I will continue to honor that and not make any further comments."
The lockout entered its 63rd day on Saturday. With games cancelled through Nov. 30, it's thought that the NHL may start cutting games into December, along with the All-Star Game in Columbus on Jan. 27.
