Crosby: “I’m really happy a deal has been reached”

With word of a tentative CBA agreement breaking in the wee hours of Sunday morning,* NHL players dispensed all over the globe likely let out a cheer (and maybe a frantic call to their travel agents). Or at least they will when they wake up.

Here’s a quick collection of reactions from the players who apparently weren’t deep in REM sleep:

Sidney Crosby‘s reaction to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review’s Josh Yohe won’t shock anyone with its depth, yet it captured the mood:

“I’m really happy a deal has been reached,” Crosby said. “It’s exciting to know we will be back playing hockey.”

Crosby captured the elation while Shane Doan relayed his relief to reporters:

“Everyone’s obviously relieved that it’s over and done with,” Doan said.

Full video from Doan:

P.K. Subban shows that he never passes up a chirping opportunity, as he reminded the Montreal Gazette’s Dave Stubbs that he guaranteed that the lockout would end.

There might not be a ton of fans clamoring to see Shawn Thornton play again compared to other players, but his comment to CSNNE.com’s Joe Haggerty remains amusing and concise:

“I’m just happy this madness is over so I can go back to work,” Thornton said.

Here’s video of key NHLPA figure Ron Hainsey‘s reactions:

This collection is a solid barometer of the reactions to the late-breaking news. Oddly enough, players haven’t professed their love for Gary Bettman or Bill Daly, but we’ll certainly make note if they do.

* – Or Saturday night, if you’re one of the brave souls who stayed up through it all.