My Plan for 2014 Games

I know people tend to look too far forward in life, but when it comes to these games, we have to think ahead before time and politics.

Reschedule those annoying Euro games that start the regular season. Instead, put those select number of games in February to lead up to the Games. You have, say, 14 teams over there and they play, while the teams back in North America break a few days earlier to allow for the exclusivity of NHL games in Europe.

Those players in Europe get a free European vacation during the games, courtesy the NHL, NHLPA, IOC, whatever. It gets players over there early. It allows the NHL to play games and promote its game in Europe as excitement about the Olympic tournament builds.

It's a win-win. And if the NHL can somehow get the right to broadcast games on the NHL Network, NHL Center Ice and NHL Game Center Live. If NBC is placing the games played in North America on the back channels, what will become of games played in Russia at odd hours back in North America? Put Steve Rosenbloom of the Chicago Tribune among those who say there is no solution save for the NHL to exit the games. The same is true for Jay Feaster, the former GM of the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Normally I would agree. But there is a way out of this and the grease is money. I think my changes help put money back in the NHL's pocket, which is exactly why I think a few changes in the schedule and broadcast rights will put the NHL players right where the NHLPA and the IIHF want them. Sochi, anyone?