NHL and NHLPA reach tentative agreement for Stanley Cup Playoffs
The NHL and NHLPA have a tentative agreement to return for the postseason.
Over the past few weeks, the NHL and NHLPA have been hammering out the details to resume the 2019-20 season. While the regular season is over, the Stanley Cup Playoffs will still happen, though it will be with an extended 24-team format.
According to TSN’s Bob McKenzie, the two sides have finalized a tentative agreement to return to play. This agreement touches specifically on the protocols for phase 3 (training camp) and phase 4 (the official return of hockey).
However, it’s worth noting this agreement is tentative and nothing is set in stone yet. The two sides are still negotiating an extension of the collective bargaining agreement. If the two sides can work things out, it will prevent a lockout, which would be huge for the league because that’s something they’ve struggled with in the past.
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Here’s the timeline for what should happen next. First, the protocols for Phase 3 and Phase 4 both need the approval of the NHLPA’s executive committee. Next, the agreements will go to an NHLPA vote which will feature all members voting. Finally, it will go to the NHL Board of Governors. Once all of that happens, there will be an official agreement.
Phase 3 has a target start date of July 13, which will be the start of training camps. However, nothing is quite set in stone there. Plus, with the St. Louis Blues facing some positive tests for the novel coronavirus, that date might have to be pushed back. Phase 4 is still supposed to start on August 1, but again, nothing’s set in stone there.
The main protocols for Phase 3 and Phase 4 are as follows. Firstly, any player can opt-out for any reason, but must notify their club by July 7 (Tuesday) at 5:00 p.m. EST. Secondly, teams are allowed to carry up to 30 skaters but are allowed to carry as many goalies as they want. Also, teams must submit their rosters no later than July 9.
Thirdly, players will be given daily tests and anyone who tests positive must report it to their team. Also, any player who is deemed to be at substantial risk of getting the novel coronavirus will be considered unfit to play and unable to participate in Phases 3 and 4. That could mean several players around the league, including Max Domi of the Montreal Canadiens, will be unable to play.
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Nothing has been officially agreed to yet, but it appears hockey is getting very close to returning. Now, will it be possible for the league to ensure player safety? And will the players be willing to stay in a bubble? The answer to those two questions will likely determine if the postseason can be completed.