So I guess it's just watch and wait. This is down to one issue - the same issue as always: will the NHLPA accept any form of cost-certainty or will they refuse? It's been pretty apparent for weeks that the NHLPA's refusal to come off this issue is going to bring them down and now it's really a time when the NHL needs to show mercy on the union. Personally, I wouldn't except that it's the only way the season happens and it needs to. I think the NHL realizes that aside from the obvious problems, missing a season sets up a lot of fallout which includes the status of juniors and that could be a problem for years.
But if the NHLPA thinks the owners are going to fold, read this piece on the Wild: Wheelock holds out hope for hockey. While optimistic, it's clear that this club, and it's typical, can go this season and maybe longer without hockey.
Settle now, boys. You have one more kick at it: take the cap, make your best deal. But don't miss the season.