Several months ago, the NHL season was expected to begin in October, as it usually does each season. However, those plans have changed due to COVID-19. Because of the pandemic, the start date has been moved from October to January 13. There are many changes that have been implemented out of an abundance of caution. One of them includes reducing the regular 82-game schedule to 56. .
Travel
In addition to this, there is the problem with travel. Teams typically play games between the United States and Canada. Because travel between the two countries have been restricted, this creates a problem with determining who teams will play against. As part of the solution, the NHL has agreed to realign the divisions so all travel would be heavily limited.
Division Realignment?
There are talks about a possible “Canadian Division.” However, there is no confirmation of this. But, if this happens, it will look like this:
Atlantic Division:
- Buffalo Sabres
- Columbus Blue Jackets
- New Jersey Devils
- New York Islanders
- New York Rangers
- Philadelphia Flyers
- Pittsburgh Penguins
- Washington Capitals
Central Division:
- Chicago Blackhawks
- Colorado Avalanche
- Dallas Stars
- Detroit Red Wings
- Minnesota Wild
- Nashville Predators
- St. Louis Blues
- Winnipeg Jets
The teams in Canada will be combined in their own group:
- Calgary Flames
- Edmonton Oilers
- Montreal Canadiens
- Ottawa Senators
- Toronto Maple Leafs
- Vancouver Canucks
There would be the South division, which will include the following teams:
- Anaheim Ducks
- Arizona Coyotes
- Carolina Hurricanes
- Florida Panthers
- Los Angeles Kings
- San Jose Sharks
- Tampa Bay Lightning
- Vegas Golden Knights
More Changes to Come
While everything seems to be going as planned, things can still change due to the pandemic. Nothing has been set in stone, so keep up with the latest information regarding the pending NHL season.
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