The NHL and NHL Players’ Association will meet today in New York at what appears to be a critical juncture in the labor dispute that began when the league locked players out on Sept. 15.

People who are familiar with the talks but are not authorized to comment publicly said players and some influential owners are pressuring their respective negotiators to reach a deal.

The league has canceled the schedule through Nov. 30 – 26.5 percent of the season – as well as the Jan. 1 Winter Classic. Losing more games could damage its prospects for future revenue and alienate more fans.