Personally, I'm a huge hockey fan and would hate to see another lockout. But there isn't much time between now and 9/15 which is when the current CBA expires.

Wondering if anyone here other than myself enjoys the sport as much as I do.

 

I really want a back to back season, so there better be hockey.

 

There better be hockey!!!! Go Canes!!!!

 

I'm in Fort Worth, and honestly haven't been to a Stars game since the last Cup-winning season. Looking back on it that was a fun time, but I actually feel bad that a real hockey town didn't get to have those championships. It was more of a circus to us than something we really cared about (from my perspective anyway, I'm sure there are real hockey fans here).
To answer your question I would not be affected in any way if hockey were not played this season (or any other), but I do appreciate that it is a great game that is enjoyed by many. I feel like the game was over-expanded into the southern US in the early '90's and despite the success of some of the teams in the region it is in need of some serious contraction.
Also seems like the players and owners are DRASTICALLY far apart in negotiations, and that the owners don't really care if they have a season this year because half the teams were losing money at the current rates anyway (ignorant southerner perspective, admittedly).

 

Some of the analysts agree with the fact that there should be some de-expansion. I feel like some teams could be moved but I don't see a problem with the 30 teams in the league currently.

The two sides are really far apart but it seems like they just want it structured more like the NFL or NBA, both which bring it a lot more revenue than the NHL. Hopefully they come to an agreement soon.

 

The league needs to contract. It's too thin as it is. I'd ten times rather watch an NHL hockey game than an NBA game, so I'm hoping they do have a season this year. The doldrums after football are excruciating when all that's on tv is basketball. I wish I could go into a coma after the super bowl and wake up for cactus league and grapefruit league games.

 

Well here is to hoping there's an NHL season this winter and to the start of football season.