  We implement a propensity score matching technique to present the first
evidence on the impact of labor supply decisions during labor disputes on
worker productivity in the context of professional sports. In particular, we
utilize a unique natural experiment from the 2012-13 National Hockey League
(NHL) lockout, during which approximately 200 players decided to play overseas
while the rest stayed in North America. We separate the players based on their
nationality and investigate the effect of playing abroad on post-lockout player
performance. We find limited evidence of enhanced productivity among European
players, and no evidence of a benefit or drawback for North American players.
The lack of consistent productivity impact is in line with literature in
industries with large labor rents, and we propose several additional
explanations within the context of professional hockey. Our study contributes
to the general understanding of the impact of employer-initiated work stoppage
on labor productivity.
