With each passing day, it appears more likely that the start of the NHL season will, at best, be pushed back for some time.

The league and its players seem unable to come to a deal, which means some scheduled events have already come under fire.

After meeting for approximately an hour-and-a-half Thursday, Commissioner Gary Bettman said the two sides are not much closer.

“We are far apart,” Bettman said.

“If there is going be a lockout, then you would have missed games, you would have lost revenue, you would have lost paycheques,” said Donald Fehr.

Some teams have already cancelled their rookie tournament, including the Detroit Red Wings dropping an eight-prospect event.

The league has threatened to lock out the players if no deal is reached by September 15.

Not yet at risk is the January 1 Winter Classic game set to be played in Detroit between the Red Wings and Maple Leafs.