Well, I'm a huge hockey fan but never have focused much attention on the NHL. We live right next to an AHL city. The arena is 20-30 minutes from my house, so life is good. And we're not that far from UNH, and one of the best college hockey rivalries in the country. I actually am very seriously considering UNH for next year, so chances are good that the NHL will continue to not matter too much to me. Frankly, the AHL and college teams have better, more fun hockey, and cheaper seats.
And my stepsister plays for the girls travel team here, and my cousin is goalie for one of the best travel teams in the state. So I'm still living in a hockey world, even without the NHL.