TORONTO (AP) - Union leader Steve Fehr says he believes the NHL's labor deal can be wrapped up quickly once the sides make a breakthrough in negotiations.

Speaking at the Prime Time Sports Management Conference, the special counsel to the NHL Players' Association says three issues remain to be solved: the split of money, player contract rules and who pays for the damage caused by the lockout.

The NHL lockout started in mid-September and forced the cancellation of all regular-season games through Nov. 30. A deal would likely need to be struck by early next week for a shortened season to begin Dec. 1.

Representatives from the NHL and NHLPA have met seven of the last nine days, but no future talks are planned.