The fact that this is even being discussed is a sure sign that attitudes are shifting.
Among the early closures responding to the pandemic panic were professional sports. Packed stadiums and perpetual inter-city travel were just too risky until we knew what we were dealing with.
Basketball and Hockey fans, in particular, took it in the chin, as both leagues were gearing up for playoffs.
We are now seeing the first glimmers of hope that a season might still be salvaged — for the NHL, at least. A tentative agreement as to the revised playoff format has now been agreed to by their player’s union. We might still see playoff hockey, folks! Well, if the league decides to proceed with games, which would most likely be played in rinks without fans.
The NHLPA Executive Board has authorized further negotiations with the NHL on a 24-team return to play format, subject to reaching an overall agreement with the League on resuming the 2019-20 season: https://t.co/SIzQYyooEE pic.twitter.com/9TftmApiGJ
— NHLPA (@NHLPA) May 23, 2020
It’s a different sort of format. Because the regular season never played out to a conclusion, they had to get creative. Instead of a 16 team playoff season, they’ve expanded it to 24 — meaning all but a handful of teams have a shot.
And a lot of people who had been playing hurt have had time to heal.
What do you think? Would you be glad to see team sports making a comeback?
Should We Take The Risk Of Finishing the NHL Season Despite COVID?
