Obviously a 48-game lockout shortened NHL schedule wasn't what anyone wanted.
But the reduced schedule, which has meant games just within the conference, has certainly created a lot of interest and excitement, and that bodes well for the upcoming playoffs.
It looks as though Canadian hockey fans will have a lot to choose from this spring, although things still need to be finalized.
There are some tight races in the East and West for the last few spots. It's great to see the development of Columbus in the second half of the season to compete for a post-season berth. It is just as interesting to see long-time power of the Detroit Red Wings having to battle hard for one.
Buffalo was seen to be a seller two weeks back before the trade deadline. Then the Sabres cranked it up a notch to get in the mix for the last spot in the East.
So, we missed a chunk of the season, but at least what the fans ended up with has been intense and entertaining.
