"The Premiere Games in Europe that have opened the NHL season the past five years could be a casualty of collective bargaining, though sources within the league and the NHLPA have told Slap Shots the sides are attempting to strike an agreement under which the matches would be scheduled.

The uncertainty over whether the 2012-13 season will begin on time given the Sept. 15 expiration date of the CBA has at least for the time being prevented scheduling of the games, with the parties as yet unable to agree on the parameters regarding revenue allocations and risk should the matches be canceled.

Regardless of whether the issue is settled in a timely manner, the Rangers will not open the season in Europe for the second straight year, sources have confirmed."