he biggest single topic in the game of hockey in 2004 will be the lockout. Does it happen, is it averted, is it long, is it short, etc.? However, that will not be the only thing going on in the game.

For your reading convenience, here are the resolutions, NHL first, the 'rest of us' second.

NHL Resolutions

To Andy Van Hellemond, NHL Director of Officials:

For the first time, get a European official. Officials have crossed the color barrier (much too late) and have more fully integrated American officials into the game, but the first European has not shown up. On this side of the Atlantic we are fond of holding on to the impression that European officialsa are utterly overwhelmed by the rougher style of play in North American. That is silly, and it is time to get over it.

Continued...