NEW YORK (January 1, 2013)--The NHL and the union were geared up for a full day of talks on New Year’s Day, as the deadline nears to reach a deal to save the hockey season.

After the players' association presented a counterproposal Monday, the sides made plans Tuesday for talks that were expected to take up much of the day.

Small groups from each side are to meet or confer by conference call during the afternoon about provisions regarding a potential collective bargaining agreement.

A full get-together of negotiating teams wasn't expected at the league office before late afternoon.

Monday's talks marked the first time the NHL and union met in person since Dec. 13.

Commissioner Gary Bettman says a deal must be reached by Jan. 11 so a 48-game season can begin eight days later.