Quote:
Originally Posted by iggy_oi
My understanding of it was that the league was only interested in extending the existing CBA and offered Olympic participation in return. Unless there's more to it than that, that is not a negotiation. Even though I don't agree with it, I'm not blaming the league for their decision, but blaming the PA for the league's failed negotiation with the IOC is ridiculous.
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My point is the NHLPA had multiple opportunities to be part of the Olympic participation negotiation. They chose not to and therefore I don't think they have the right to complain now. If it was really that important to them, either going or having three weeks off, then they should have negotiated it in their last CBA.
I'm disappointed that NHL players aren't going and I would assign blame in the following order:
IOC - They are a dirty, arrogant, corrupt organization and think everyone should bend over backward for them because well, it's the Olympics.
NHLPA - wanted to go, but didn't want to give up anything to do it
NHL - I think their requests to recognized as a sponsor and be able to use the Olympics in promotion was reasonable.
IIHF - These are the guys that really tried. They even offered to pay the insurance and travel costs, which I don't think they should as the IOC makes all the money.