The NHL Players Association is in total state of disarray.
League sources say interim executive director Ian Penny has resigned ad is expected to release a statement to the media. The advisory board of Steve Larmer, Dan O’Neill and Ron Lloyd have also stepped down. Field representatives Joe Reekie, Rob Zamuner, Jim McKenzie and Steve Webb could also be gone because they’ve been ordered not to travel or do any work by the union.
The indications are ombudsman Buzz Hargrove may have been suspended, but those close to him say he’s deny that report.
All this come on the heels of a review committee made up Chris Chelios, Rob Blake, Mark Recchi and Nik Lidstrom being set up to study the firing of Paul Kelly.
“Some key employees inside the union are contemplating their resignation and the union has effectively ceased operations,” said a league source just moments ago. “There is bewilderment on behalf of the players to what’s gone on today. The players are demanding answers.
“The review committee has exceeded its mandate and authority, but placing demands on the advisory board, the union staff, and the field reps. They’ve taken over the union’s operations.”
The review committee wrote in an email earlier this week it’s trying to get the union back on track.
“We have come through a period of considerable turmoil and dysfunction within the NHLPA. It is our goal that everything we do now be focused on strengthening and unifying the Association as we move forward to ensure we are in a strong position to enter collective bargaining and conduct our day to day business with the NHL. This review will be conducted independently of those who have worked at the NHLPA during this embarrassing time for the Association,” said the memo.
