We take this seriously. The pro gambling culture is something we educate our players about extensively.

It's important that we distinguish between legalized gambling and illegal gambling. I want to emphasize that we don't condone any form of illegal gambling. But when it comes to legalized gambling, the question is where do you draw the line? You are talking about limiting the rights of a hockey player to participate in a legal activity.

['] 'We are excited about being the big fish in the small pond for the short term, and that smaller pond is going to get bigger, ... 'In the immediate term, we are going to get the attention, devotion and coverage that we want. The exposure will be good for us.

The talks were cordial and informative, but revealed that there remain significant differences that need to be discussed and resolved by the parties,

We still believe that the framework we have had in place for the last 10 years now has served the sport of hockey well.

In terms of the effect of, for lack of a better term, capping minor-league salaries at $75,000, that was clearly not the intent of the provision but I suppose I'm not surprised by the impact of the provision,