Even though the NHL said its players will not participate in next year's Olympics, International Ice Hockey Federation president Rene Fasel says the league could still participate if a decision is made before mid-July.

Fasel said that he is still talking to the NHL and the International Olympic Committee to broker a deal. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman announced last month that the NHL was closing the door on participation.

The issue with a last-minute change of plan before next February's Games is housing.