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Chipman expresses disappointment at NHL talks breakdown

Talks between the National Hockey League and the NHL Players’ Association have broken down in New York and Winnipeg Jets chairman and governor Mark Chipman has issued the following statement:

"I’d like to thank the NHL for giving me the opportunity to participate in this very important process.

"I came here optimistic that we could find a solution. That sense of optimism grew after our first few sessions, including the small group discussions late last night.

"Regrettably, we have been unable to close the divide on some critical issues that we feel are essential to the immediate and long-term health of our game.

"While I sense there are some members of the players association that understand our perspective on these issues, clearly there are many that don’t.

"I am deeply disappointed that we were unable to bring this extremely unfortunate situation to a successful conclusion and I wish to apologize to our fans and sponsors for letting them down."

Chipman arrived in New York earlier this week as part of a group of moderate owners and new voices parachuted in to help the negotiations. And while there was progress and optimism early on, the tone changed Wednesday afternoon and then completely came off the rails later Thursday.

At that point Chipman, along with Toronto Maple Leafs boss Larry Tannebaum, apparently left New York.

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