Good and bad of this NHL lockout, before the bad begins to dominate

The good and bad of this NHL lockout thus far, and the bad list will likely grow in the days and weeks ahead.
The good part will likely just get smaller, to be sure.
GOOD
1) This is an opportunity for hockey fans to get exposed to minor league hockey (Grand Rapids Griffins, Toledo Walleye), college hockey (Michigan, Michigan State, among many others) and major juniors (Plymouth Whalers, Saginaw Spirit, Windsor Spitfires), all entertaining and fine quality hockey.
Really it is, just give it a shot.
2) When this labor issue finally does get resolved, it’ll mean a shortened regular season (which isn’t necessarily a bad thing) with every game being that much more important and valuable. That means great hockey, so just stay patient.
3) More time to not having to watch the Red Wings’ defense, which could be a good thing looking at it on paper.
BAD
1) The continuing labor talk in professional sports these days, not just hockey. Lockouts in the NFL and NBA in the past year. It’s becoming too commonplace.
2) You really feel bad for the arena workers, and all those seeing their finances cut because of this lockout. Those are the people truly hurting.
3) It’s definitely hockey weather in the morning these days, that certain type of crispness, and you associate this time of year with the start of another NHL season. It’s disappointing when it’s not available.