TORONTO, March 7 (UPI) -- The NHL, which canceled the 2004-05 season, has asked to meet with its players union and work toward a contract for next season, it was reported Monday.
The two sides are expected to meet this week, The Sports Network of Canada said.
A week ago, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said: "We, as a League, are committed to working toward opening the '05-06 season, and I hope to encourage the players' association back to the table in the immediate future in furtherance of that objective."
This season was officially canceled Feb. 16, following last-ditch efforts to reach a compromise agreement.
Players have been locked out since mid-September when their old collective bargaining agreement expired.
Nearly 400 NHL players have joined teams in Europe since the lockout began.
