Sorry this is a bit late, but here's the link to my story in today's paper about the 2008 CHL conference.
The most interesting things to me are the new interference rules and the way the need for a collective bargaining agreement is going to affect the upcoming season.
When I spoke to Bucks owner Glenn Hart, he said it's "anybody's guess" how long it will take for the CBA to be reached, which could mean trouble if an agreement isn't made before the start of the 2008-09 season.
Veteran limit, roster size and changes to some of the league's current trading policies are some of the issues that cannot be discussed until the CBA is agreed upon. For a little bit more information about the Professional Hockey Player's Association, visit their site or read the press release published when the CHL first voted to become a part of the union.
Three owners have been chosen to represent their peers in these negotiations: Former NHL defenseman Dave Ellett (New Mexico Scorpions), Jeff Lund (Tulsa Oilers) and Randy Sanders (Amarillo Gorillas and Austin Ice Bats).
As far as interference goes, both Hart and Bucks director of broadcasting/media relations Bryan Benway said the impression they got is that the league is trying to be more on par with the NHL. Hart said that the 2008 NHL playoffs made people realize "prettier hockey" can be good, too.
It should be interesting to see how this affects the more aggressive clubs in the league for the upcoming season. I'll be talking to Coach Terry Ruskowski tomorrow to find out his take on the situation.
I've been told each team was given a DVD to help everyone get familiarized with the new rules, and I'd love to see it if that's in any way possible. Guess we'll find out.
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