Western Hockey League planning to start next season Dec. 4

The Western Hockey League announced Thursday a prospective start date of December 4  for the 2020-21 season. The original return to play plan included an Oct. 2 start date. WHL officials say they remain committed to playing a full regular-season schedule of 68 games, followed by four rounds of playoffs. The 2019-20 regular season was halted on March 12 due to the advancing COVID-19 virus.

From today’s release: ““Regardless of our start date, the WHL is committed to playing a full Regular Season and Playoffs in 2020-21,” stated WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. “In our discussions with the government and health authorities, it has become apparent that additional time is required to ensure we can return to play in a safe and responsible manner. Our WHL health and safety protocols have been well received by the health authorities but we have several key issues that we will need to reach a resolution on in the coming months.””