The NHL lockout is on the verge of entering its fourth month, and Tampa Bay Lightning winger Teddy Purcell didn't mince any words when he talked about the state of negotiations between the league and players' association. Purcell described the situations as "hopeless," and said that he will probably be playing in Europe if there isn't significant progress by Christmas.

Just a week ago, it seemed like a deal was imminent between the two sides. However, negotiations went off the rails quickly, and the NHL completely pulled their offer after the NHLPA came back with a counteroffer. Since then, the league cancelled all games through Dec. 30, but have agreed to resume talks on Wednesday.

The 27-year-old Canadian has played two-plus seasons with the Lightning, and scored 24 goals for the team last season while accumulating 65 points. He's signed with Tampa Bay through the 2015-16 season for $4.5 million a year.