NHL And NHLPA Release Statements On 2012 NHL Lockout

Brandon over at Defending Big D had the statements posted earlier, and I figure that you guys'd like to read them as well. Try not to laugh at Bill Daly's statement... I dare you.

NHL Debuty Commissioner Bill Daly:

"We spoke today and determined that there was no point in convening a formal bargaining session in light of the fact that neither side is in a position to move off of its latest proposal," Daly said. "I'm sure we will keep in touch in the coming days and schedule meetings to the extent they might be useful or appropriate. We are sorry for where we are. Not what we hoped or expected.

"It looks like we are heading into a work stoppage that neither the League nor any NHL Clubs wanted. We will continue to work hard to minimize the damage of this development, but ultimately, the Players Association and Players need to take responsibility for future growth of the game & the damage that they are causing with the hardline position they are taking."

NHLPA's Steve Fehr:

"Today we suggested that the parties meet in advance of the owners' self-imposed deadline of midnight tonight. Don Fehr, myself and several players on the Negotiating Committee were in the city and prepared to meet. The NHL said it saw no purpose in having a formal meeting. There have been and continue to be private, informal discussions between representatives of both sides."