Who will watch NHL games?

[cbisle]

Now that the NHLPA and it's owners have finally reached an agreement on a new CBA, I am wondering who will watch NHL games come the start of the 05/06 season. Also, how do you think Canadian teams will be affected by the new contract.

[IAMCAPER]

I will certainly be watching. As much as I hate the fact that greed and stubborness caused a cancellation of a complete season, I enjoy hockey too much to not pay attention.

As far as the Canadian teams go, I think the new CBA, as it is now, will help level the playing field with the US market teams. Despite some strong performances over the past few years, team scouting and GM performance will play a bigger part now with the salary cap.

Also, look to see a team in Winnipeg within the next 5 years.

[cbisle]

I will also be watching, and I mean religiously. After going a whole year without hockey I realized how much I love the game.

I agree that the playing field will now be level with the US markets. I think the Leafs will be hurt by the new CBA. They have a lot of talent to choose from. And some guys won't be happy with what they're offered, particularly Owen Nolan, Brian Leetch, and possibly Alex Mogilny. Other than that, the remaining Canadian teams are looking alright when it comes to working with a salary cap.

I hope we do see a team back in Winnipeg. This new CBA may provide a few other markets with a chance to build a franchise as well.

[IAMCAPER]

Well, I think it's better to have 11,000 showing up to games in places like Winnipeg and Quebec City than to have 6000-8000 at games in places like Carolina and Pittsburgh.

The Leafs are going to be in big trouble at first because they have one of the weakest systems in the league. The strongest systems in Canada belong to Calgary and Montreal but Edmonton and Vancouver are very strong as well. Ottawa has a fairly young team so they'll be fine.