A crucial step in the ratification process of the N-H-L's new collective agreement happen in New York City on Wednesday.

N-H-L owners will meet to vote on the tentative labour agreement reached with the players' association last weekend. If a majority approves, as expected, the N-H-L will move closer toward the official end of the lockout.

A memorandum of understanding of the deal hasn't been completed yet, so the union has yet to schedule a vote for its more than 700 members. A majority of players also must approve the deal for hockey to return to the ice.

If there are no snags, ratification could be finished by Saturday and training camps can open Sunday. A 48-game regular season would then be expected to begin on January 19th.

(The Canadian Press)