What happens to ex-NHL players if the NHLPA crumbles?

What would happen if the NHL died and the owners start a new league without the NHLPA?
Would the old hockey players receive any compensation?
With what money since the NHLPA will no longer be getting any union dues?

Will the the new union be obligated to pay them?
What if there is no more union and the league acts as a "free market"?

I think we may see more players like Bobby Orr speaking out to get a new CBA signed.
Maybe they will put some extra pressure on the NHLPA.

What do you think?

 

Since those players weren't a party to expired CBA they have no legal standing to claim any benefits.

 

The union does manage a pension fund though doesnt it?

WHy would you have no union if there was a free market? There are still working conditions and grievances. Its gotta be pretty difficult for owners to be allowed to just start a new league and ignore the players union. They are going to have to negotiate a solution and they wont just get their way if they wait long enough.