NHL Lockout Ramble: Barack Obama, the Winter Classic and a Solution?

(Christinne Muschi/Reuters/Files)

Are we all not a little tired that there is still no hockey to tune into on a Saturday night, or any day of the week for that matter?

This lockout business has gone on for way to long, especially considering this is not the first time it has happened.

If it happened to be a one time deal, where the players and owners had to sit out a season to make sure everything was in place for the next 50 years, then maybe I would not be complaining as much.

But, this is the third lockout in less than 20 years.

That is pushing it a little bit.

Chicago Blackhawks: Central Division Title Is This Seasons Goal

Photo by Bill Smith/NHL via Getty Images

     The Central Division may the toughest of any in the NHL.

Last season, all but one team (the Columbus Blue Jackets) were able to make it to the playoffs.

The Chicago Blackhawks, even being a team outfitted with all-star talent, finished in fourth spot and sixth in the Western Conference.

Next season, they do not want to be in that position. The goal is to win the division and gain crucial home ice advantage.

Chicago Blackhawks: 3 Reasons They Will Take the Central Division Crown

 

With a lockout still ongoing, we may never get to see if the team can accomplish that feat. However, good news seems to be in the future after the NHL offered the NHLPA a 50/50 split. Although it does not solve all the problems, it does present a solid starting point.

Hockey may be back sooner then we think and when it does return, expect the Blackhawks to give the Central Division teams a strong run for the title.

Calgary Flames: Prospect Sven Baertschi Is the Real Deal

Getty Images via National Hockey League

     After excelling in the five games he played last season with the Calgary Flames, prospect Sven Baertschi would probably have been a regular in the lineup this season—had a NHL lockout not occurred.

For now, Baertschi will have to make due dominating the AHL for the Abbotsford Heat. So far, through two games, the dynamic Swiss forward has been able to put up four points—two goals, two assists.

With the skill that he possesses in the offensive zone, do not be surprised if his play stays pretty consistent all year. After all, a young player like himself is still trying to impress Flames personal at the AHL level—in case the lockout is lifted and a NHL season resumes.

Last season, Baertschi split time between the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League (WHL) and the Calgary Flames.