This time last week, cautious optimism surrounding the NHL lockout was flowing like a geyser from a liberated fire hydrant, drowning the fans with sweet dreams of the sport that once was, but might still be. Suddenly, the feelings of optimism are gone, and once again those who remain powerless are left feeling power-played. The “secret meetings” (which were only a few blocks away from NHL HQ) have concluded with little ground gained. The perfunctory daily meetings between the second-in-commands appear to be happening with less frequency. Those on the outside looking in have been left to wonder how the …