This just in . . .

From the "It's About Damn Time" department comes this news flash from the Associated Press: The NHL accepted an invitation from the players' association on Thursday to return to the negotiating table in an effort to end the lockout that began nearly three months ago. In a letter sent to NHL commissioner Gary Bettman on Thursday, players' association executive director Bob Goodenow proposed that the sides meet next week in Toronto and said the union is working on a new proposal. No official talks have occurred since Sept. 9, when the union made its last offer. The lockout reached its 78th day Thursday. "We look forward to meeting with the NHL Players' Association next week," said Bill Daly, the league's chief legal officer. "We are hopeful that the NHLPA's offer will be a meaningful effort to address the league's economic problems. When we receive the proposal, we will evaluate it closely and respond appropriately." I'm doing my best not to get my hopes up, but damn if this isn't just a little bit exciting. Perhaps there is a Santa Claus after all.