Donald Fehr Shows Gary Bettman How It's Done

"It's clear to me that they didn't put it together in an hour or two."

That's Gary Bettman talking when asked about the NHLPA's well mannered and thought provoking CBA proposal which they put forth yesterday. People have been reading that blurb one of two ways. Either Bettman is surprised by the clear and concise proposal set forth by the new NHLPA under Fehr which is a stark contrast to the previous CBA negotiations when the players were raked over the coals; or Bettman is talking a jab at the very people he speaks for, the owners, and mocking their ridiculous proposal from a month ago.

I believe it to be the latter. The players (outside of those with signing bonuses) don't get paid NHL salaries this season unless there is an NHL season. Simply put, they want there to be one. The owners have other ventures to line their pockets with (Little Caesar's, Arsenal FC, hedge fund management, etc...) so they can "afford" to lose a season, something they made all too apparent a month ago.

Bettman's statement tells me he's wholly disappointed in his owners and perhaps a little taken aback by finally having to negotiate with a man in Donald Fehr who may be his superior when it comes to the business of big money sports. What's your take on this?

Links after the jump.

Leafs Links

What Would A Luxury Tax Mean for the Leafs?

Leafs Nation Roundtable: Should a Goalie be Burke's Priority?

Yes, but those available aren't that attractive. He missed his opportunity when Halak was moved.

What They're Saying: Morgan Rielly

Players Throwing Barbs at Bettman Should Direct Them to Their Own Owners

Never bite the hand that feeds.

Other Links

Rec League: Taking a Slapshot and Ultimate Frisbee Passing

If you don't know how to take a slapper, just don't. The goalies suck anyways. Just snap it.

Inferences About the NHLPA CBA Response