Are the sharp staff cuts in front offices around the NHL in anticipation of a lockout legitimate belt tightening, or public posturing at the expense of defenseless employees?
"We're certainly trying to be as efficient as we can," Caps president Dick Patrick said.Leaguewide, the staff cuts are more extensive than those seen in the days leading up to and during the 103-day NHL lockout of 1994-95.
"It's sort of a different feeling now," Patrick said. "Last time, there was, I think, a prevailing thought that it could be settled at any time. You obviously hope we can settle [the current dispute] without losing any games. But you don't know how long this could take."
At the league's two offices in New York and Toronto, staff cuts could amount to 150 positions -- a 50 percent cut in the league's headquarters staff.
Something tells me they're serious this time.
One hire/signing the Caps should make NOW: A Russian assistant coach or veteran player to tutor Ovechkin.
Amidst all of the cuts within other organizations the Thrashers have listed upwards of 35 jobs to be filled over the past few weeks.