NOW THAT HOCKEY IS BACK ...

So the NHL and NHLPA came to an agreement -- and in just a few days, the NHL will be back in business. From the perspective of a fan of the game -- and the Eastern Conference Champion New Jersey Devils -- I was elated when I read the news this morning. The game I love more than any other is finally back. And for that, I couldn't be happier.

Yet there are a few things I must say. And it won't be pleasant. But here it goes.

In 2013, I ...

• Will not pay to go see an NHL game.

• Will only go to an NHL game if the tickets are comped. That means, if someone I know paid for the tickets, I still won't go.

• Will not but a single piece of merchandise that would put money in the pockets of the league or players.

• Will not pay for NHL Center Ice if it's not made available, for free, as it should be, as a way to say thank you to the fans.

• Will watch games that are televised.

• Hope to see fans sending a message by not attending games in the early stages of the season, though I doubt this will happen.

I love this game. I love this sport. I love the New Jersey Devils. But three times -- three times is way too many time to say "f--k off" to the fans. In time, I'll soften this stance. But for now, I'll watch on TV.

But it'll be a cold day in hell before I give these greedy bastards a penny.

Period.

That said, I'm ready for the Devils to do, again, what they did in 2012. But just one step further.

And I can't wait to begin to make fun of Rangers fans again.

That, I must say, is partly what I missed most.

NHL LOCKOUT KEEPS THE COMMON MAN A TRUE SUCKER

The Canessa Commentary
By Kevin Canessa Jr.

NEWARK, N.J. -- 

If you've ever been to an NHL game, whether in Newark, New York, Long Island or wherever, there was likely a time you got to the arena early. In doing so, you were meeting friends for a pre-game meal, or drink, or both, at a local watering hole or restaurant.

One of the reasons why the New Jersey Devils chose to move from East Rutherford -- where there was nothing but parking spaces surrounding the arena -- to Newark, was so fans could get the ultimate experience, before and after games.

When the Prudential Center opened, so, too, did numerous bars and restaurants in the area -- establishments that would not have otherwise been there. For at least 41 nights a year -- likely more with playoffs and pre-season games -- these places would be packed with fans. Hungry fans. Thirsty fans. Fans who have money to spend. And to tip. And to keep the local economy thriving.