(MCT) — The very real possibility of an extended NHL work stoppage has many Blackhawks considering embarking on the ultimate road trip.

Playing in Europe is an option if the league and the players' union can't come to an agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement. Talks between the sides have broken off with the current deal set to expire Sept. 15, and the league has said it will lock out the players if a new CBA isn't in place by that date.

The impasse threatens to delay the start of the season and possibly have an even greater impact. The 2004-05 season was canceled when an agreement could not be reached and many players joined teams in Europe.