Updates on the 2020-2021 NHL Season

The NHL has stated an aim of mid-January to begin what could be a 52-56 game season (as reported by TSN). Obviously current COVID-19 spikes appear to be playing it’s part in delaying or deferring that. Either way, I'm getting my fill of college hockey while I await the final decision on the upcoming season.

Here’s what we know so far:

• The NHL will NOT be playing in a bubble which mean state rules will apply and vary among the many games over the course of a season.
• NHL and NHLPA are in active discussion on schedule, logistics, financials and how salary structures could be altered beyond the 10% deferral that the players agreed to this summer.
• Realignment of divisions is part of this discussion which COULD look like this:
  - All Canadian Division: Calgary, Edmonton, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, & Vancouver
  - East Coast: Boston, Buffalo, Carolina, Philadelphia, New York Islanders, New York Rangers & Washington.
  - Central Division: Chicago, Columbus, Detroit, Florida, Nashville, St. Louis & Tampa Bay.
  - Pacific Division: Anaheim, Arizona, Colorado, Dallas, Los Angeles, Minnesota, San Jose & Las Vegas
• Outdoor Games are still on the table, especially for areas where states won’t allow fans in arenas: The Boston Bruins, Los Angeles Kings, Anaheim Ducks and Pittsburgh Penguins are investigating outdoor games. The Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars and Nashville Predators have indicated possible interest.

Keep checking in here at Fake Teams as I’ll be making sure to stay up-to-date with what’s currently going on.