The wait for NHL fans continues as the impending lockout draws closer.

With the current collective bargaining agreement set to expire at 11:59 p.m. EST Saturday, it’s looking more and more like the season will not start on time.  The longer a lockout lasts, means exhibition games slated for Saskatoon and Regina could also be in jeopardy.

The Edmonton Oilers are supposed to play the New York Islanders on Sept. 27 in Regina and the Winnipeg Jets are supposed to play the Boston Bruins on Sept. 29 in Saskatoon.
 
John Graham with On Ice Management said they are committed for these games to take place.

“If we go into a situation where the games are pushed back, that’s exactly what will happen,” said Graham. 

“It will be rescheduled for the start of this season or even in a worst case scenario, it will start next year’s season, but all the teams are committed to playing.”

As for fans that purchased tickets and would not be able to attend a rescheduled game, Graham said they will be reimbursed.

“Should there be a rescheduling of the game we would put a notice out and for those fans saying they don’t want to go we’ll definitely set up a program that gets them a refund.”

Graham goes on to point out that rescheduling the games later on may not work depending on the availability of the Credit Union Centre and the Brandt Centre later in the year.

jblackwell@rawlco.com

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