With a little bit of Ducks news thrown in, of course.

As for the event that dare not speak its name: I'm definitely not an expert on labor negotiations, and it's weird for me to feel pity for people who are making six- and seven-figures a year. But I'm sad that the players are (very likely) going to lose a year of their careers. The lockout could potentially hinder the development of Emerson Etem, who was poised to break into the NHL this year. The lockout will definitely take a year from Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf - two players in the prime of their careers. And if this forces Teemu into retirement, well, well - I don't want to think about that. [Ed. Note: Lose a year of hockey = Perry & Getzlaf are free agents.]

DUCKS NEWS

• Bobby Ryan has backpedaled on his trade demands, but is he still secretly holding out for a trade? [Rant Sports]
• A look at Emerson Etem. [Rant Sports]

AROUND THE NHL

• The Board of Governors have voted unanimously to approve a lockout, should it be necessary come midnight on Saturday, September 15th (Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs called for the vote). [Defending Big D]
• Video from Don Fehr's (the head of the NHLPA) press conference. [My NHL Trade Rumors]
• Listen to Sidney Crosby's remarks about the lockout. [Puck Daddy]
• Will the players just accept the owners' offer and play? [Backhand Shelf]
• Once upon a time, Bain Capital tried to buy the NHL. [Puck Daddy]
• Ron Francis and five others have become minority owners of the Carolina Hurricanes. [Canes Country]