Minnesota Wild fans were a bit stunned at first on July 4, then ecstatic at the acquisition of BOTH Minnesota native and NHL star Zach Parise and defenseman Ryan Suter, the two most sought-after free agents in hockey.
Parise jerseys became the hottest-selling in the NHL.Fans were drooling in anticipation of the Oct. 13 season opener.
But that will likely be delayed. The NHL and its players association did not reach a collective bargaining agreement by 11 p.m. Saturday, the Star Tribune reports.
The two sides weren’t even talking Saturday, the Associated Press says. That means training camps likely won’t start next week and the Oct. 11 opening of the NHL season is in peril.
Maybe the fans should walk out on the league when the NHL returns, Pioneer Press columnist Tom Powers says.
The Minnesota Wild issued a statement to its fans Sunday morning. Read below:
“We appreciate the continued support of our fans, business partners, community partners and employees as we work through the challenges caused by the expiration of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and potential delay in the start of this most promising season. At the same time, we support the League’s position and trust our NHL negotiating team is looking out for the long-term interests of the game. Even as NHL games may be missed, the Wild will continue to support the great sport of hockey at all levels through our grass roots partnerships with amateur hockey associations.
To our Season ticket holders: you will receive further information from us tomorrow morning regarding your account.
Our fans are the best in the NHL, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Xcel Energy Center.”
