So as well probably know by now, the NHL rejected the Devils deal with Ilya Kovalchuk. Here's the link.

http://www.inlouwetrust.com/2010/8/9/1614242/official-arbitrator-sustains-nhls#storyjump

So as hockey fans, how do we all feel about this? Yea, sure it's nice to see an Eastern Conference foe weakened. But what kind of precedent does this set for the rest of the NHL? Teams like the Penguins, and Capitols could be in real trouble down the road.  Do you buy the NHL's justification especially after the league has allowed the Hossa, Leclavier, and Luongo deals to go through. And as a side note will this be an issue that could lead to a potential lockout or strike in 2012 when the current CBA is up? While this isn't directly NHL related,I felt this is something all hockey fans should discuss.