"The majority of NHL players have yet to make any backup plans if the season fails to begin on time, probably to maintain a unified front in the NHLPA's quest to get a new CBA implemented by Sept. 15 - the end date of the present agreement. After all, it would send the wrong message to the league and the fans if a large number of players signed with European teams before a lockout was official.

Still, it would be naive to assume players aren't considering fall back options. A number of them will consider joining European or North American minor pro leagues if a lockout stretches into October and November. During the lost season of 2004-05, 388 NHLPA members played in Europe, mainly in Russia, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, Slovakia and Finland."