NHL Suspends 2020 Season in Midst of Coronavirus Outbreak

Hours after advising all teams to not conduct morning skates, practices or team meetings, the National Hockey League, following the same steps taken by several other sports leagues around the world, has suspended operations until further notice in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

TSN’s Frank Seravalli reported that as part of the NHL’s due diligence process, teams have been asked to provide arena building availability through the end of July.

Pierre LeBrun reported that on-ice officials have been told to book flights home immediately.

On Wednesday, the league was quick to respond to the suspension of the NBA season, saying in a statement:

“The National Hockey League is aware of the NBA’s decision tonight to indefinitely suspend its season due to a player testing positive for the coronavirus. The NHL is continuing to consult with medical experts and is evaluating the options. We expect to have a further update tomorrow.”

Also ringing in on Wednesday this week was the NHL Players’ Association, whose statement read:

“We are in continuous contact with the NHL regarding the coronavirus and the recent announcement by the NBA,” the statement said. “These discussions will continue tomorrow morning, and we will consult with players before commenting further.”