Twitter has gone crazy, as the setup, take-down, and re-setup of an NHL podium lectern led to hours of podium riffs while reporters and fans alike awaited for negotiating news. People even debated whether the league should play on Christmas Day, as if it was a foregone conclusion that it would try.
Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune -- covering recent lockout starlets Ron Burkle and Sidney Crosby -- saw tension and pessimism as owners presented "more of the same."
But the in, out, back, forth, caucus, counter sequence that carried late into the evening Wednesday night hinted if not at progress, then at least at a seriousness about carving a path to a deal.
Which makes sense since December is really damn late in the game.
UPDATE 1 a.m.: Things finally wrapped up for the night just shy of 1 a.m. EST -- and without a fit or public whining from either side:
Ron Hainsey: "We had a series of candid discussions tonight; we will meet again tomorrow #CBA"
— Michael Grange (@michaelgrange) December 6, 2012