December 6, 2012

Maple Leafs minority owner Larry Tanenbaum returns from a break during NHL labour negotiations in New York, N.Y., Dec. 4, 2012. (ERIC THAYER/Reuters)

The NHL took the muzzles off its owners Thursday night.

Hours after the league rejected the NHL Players’ Association’s proposal because the NHL wasn’t willing to negotiate off the union’s take it or leave it offer made Wednesday night, four of the owners involved in talks released statements.

“I was optimistic,” said Toronto Maple Leafs minority owner Larry Tanenbaum. “However, when we reconvened with the players, it was like someone had thrown a switch. The atmosphere had completely changed. Nevertheless, the owners tried to push forward and made a number of concessions and proposals. I question whether the union is interested in making an agreement.