Bobby Orr isn't optimistic the NHL will be able to avoid a fourth lockout since 1994.

"My gut feeling is I'd be surprised if there's not," Orr said this week, according to The Canadian Press. "I hope there isn't. But it's going to be a tough one."

After the most recent lockout in 2013, the NHL and NHLPA signed a 10-year collective bargaining agreement, but both sides own the right to opt out next September. Should that happen, a renegotiation would be required prior to the 2020-21 season, rather than before 2022-23.

Olympic participation and escrow are reportedly among the most pressing issues for the players in the current CBA.

"I think there are concerns (with the current CBA) on both sides." Orr added. "I hope I'm wrong. We don't need another lockout.

"We've got it going now. It would be a shame to put it on the back burner."

Though his playing days are long gone, Orr remains linked to several current players as the head of Orr Hockey Group, an agency that represents superstars Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews, among others.

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