As the NHL labour disputes rage on, not much is being done to resolve the issue of the division of HRR (Hockey-related revenue). The NHL Players Association, led by negotiating guru Donald Fehr, would like to see a five-year program averaging 53-54% of revenue for the players, and 46-47% of revenue for the owners. The NHL, headed by Gary Bettman and the owners of the thirty NHL franchises, would like to see a significant reduction of the players’ revenue share to an average of about 48% a year. Both sides seem to be unwilling to come off their positions, or even negotiate towards a more central figure.
It seems to me that if both sides took a 50% share of HRR, we could have a fair division of the proverbial pie, as well as hopefully discouraging any future feuding between the two camps. Yes, there are other issues involved here; the fact that the league currently owns two teams because of bankruptcy issues is alarming, and so is the fact that neither side can agree on the future growth rate of revenues, but if the sides could find a number that suits each of them, they could work together to create a financial program in order to help the teams that are struggling financially. In the end, the real losers are the NHL’s loyal fans, of which 75% say they will come back if a season-long lockout becomes a reality, as well as the employees at the various arenas who are currently out of work.
What do you think about the whole situation?
Click here for a look at some of the numbers involved in offers from both sides.