Erik Cole doesn't think a lockout is necessary if a new CBA isn't in place before the present one expires. "They definitely weren't shy about their intentions. They already seem dead-set that (a lockout) is the way it's going to go," said Cole referring to the league. "It's really disappointing. We don't understand why we can't continue to play under the current system and continue to negotiate. A lockout affects so many more people than just the players. All the trainers and the staff of the Canadiens were all informed if there's a lockout there will be cutbacks." The players insist they would report to camps and play games if talks continued past Sept. 15, but the league has made their intentions clear that they will lock them out is a new agreement isn't in place.