League and union exchange proposals as lockout looms

The NHL and the union representing its players exchanged proposals on Wednesday as negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement resumed with the threat of a lockout just days away.

The meeting was the first in almost a week, and with the current deal set to expire at midnight on Saturday and owners prepared to impose a lockout, the next few days are crucial if the 2012-13 NHL season is to open as scheduled on Oct 11.

NHL Players' Association (NHLPA) head Donald Fehr arrived at the league's Manhattan headquarters with a proposal and the NHL ready with a counter offer it said would be off the table if players do not accept it before the current agreement expires.