The NHL and players association reached a deal Sunday to hold a 56-game 2021 season from Jan. 13-May 8, with playoffs lasting into July. The league’s Board of Governors voted to approve the agreement that was supported by the NHLPA executive board.
Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement, “The National Hockey League looks forward to the opening of our 2020-21 season. While we are well aware of the challenges ahead, as was the case last spring and summer, we are continuing to prioritize the health and safety of our participants and the communities in which we live and play.”
Final details on where the seven Canadian teams will play are still pending agreements with health officials. The league is allowing for the possibility of playing games at neutral sites if needed.
Most of the league will open training camp Jan. 3. The seven teams that didn’t make the playoffs last season can start as soon as Dec. 31.
