Nuttin’ (Orange and Black) for Christmas.

As November prepares to become December, the National Hockey League’s ongoing lockout is nearing its third month.

As of Sunday, the first half of December and All Star Weekend (scheduled for January 25-27 at Nationwide Arena in Columbus) can be added to the ever-growing list of cancellations.

The lockout has now claimed all games through December 15th, the annual Winter Classic (scheduled for January 1st), and All-Star Weekend. Unfortunately, more cancellations are inevitable.

So as we approach the holiday season, I urge you (if you have not done so already) DO NOT buy any NHL merchandise or anything associated with the “No Hockey League”. I was asked by my parents what I had in mind regarding Christmas gifts. One thing I asked them to do was to not buy me any Flyers stuff. I never thought I would ever do that, but the NHL has left me with no other choice.

I know NHL fans are some of the most loyal fans in sports, and the teams fan bases love their teams. I am right there with you guys. I bleed orange and black when it comes to hockey and it kills me to not be able to watch the Flyers, especially because of yet another work stoppage. However, I (along with many other fans) will not give my money, or let anyone give money to the NHL.

After all, it doesn’t make sense to give money to a league that is pissing money away each passing day.

Like many hockey fans, I am beyond frustrated and furious. By not buying any NHL merchandise until after they get back on the ice, fans can send a message to the league and the NHLPA.

That message is that we are not supporting a league that is depriving their fans of the game they love. This is the fourth work stoppage in the last 20 years and the third under our “beloved” commissioner Gary Bettman (isn’t it three strikes and you’re out? Wait, wrong sport. Never mind).

So as you prepare to do your holiday shopping, do not buy anything related to the National Hockey League. It is not worth giving your hard-earned money to a league that, for the last (almost) 3 months has done nothing but piss money away day in and day out.

Oh and by the way, more money is going down the toilet as you read this.