Pekka is not amused by the lockout. (Photo: Bridget Samuels/flickr)

Well Predators fans, we have hit a snag in our fall plans.

With a lockout officially in place, we have to find a way to fill in all that extra time away from Bridgestone Arena. So in place of the blue and gold we would normally see, we are going to expand our horizons.

Until the NHL and Player’s Association come to an agreement, Hockey Tonkin’ will keep ya’ll updated on what is going down in Smashville as well as keeping a close eye on our AHL affiliate, the Milwaukee Admirals.

Now I know what you’re thinking.

Milwaukee? Who wants to go that far north?

Not to worry everyone, Hockey Tonkin’ will also be keeping tabs on SEC hockey – close to home, cheap, and exciting as all get out! I give fair warning – I will be attending games for the Auburn Tigers, but I will do my best to keep everyone updated on the weekend activities of the other SEC teams as well.

There will also be plenty of chances to sneak a peak into Nashville’s SPHL affiliate, the Knoxville Ice Bears, starting in late October. Better buckle up for a crazy ride this season!

Before the season gets underway, we’ll take a look at each of these leagues so we will be informed viewers when we dive into southern hockey. Let’s not look at the lockout as a disaster of epic proportions (although I know I want to see it that way) but take the opportunity to explore what makes hockey so exciting in the south!