While it has been clear that the AHL would follow suit to the same policies that the NHL would put in place when it came to the suspension of play and how they would operate beyond that, Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston reports that in the wake of the ECHL cancelling their season due to the COVID-19 epidemic, it’s likely that the AHL will not mirror the NHL when it comes to a potential return to the ice this season as they would have some big challenges in front of them.
Whether that means that the AHL will also cancel their season in the upcoming days is unknown. However, Johnston points out that while the NHL has the reserves and the power to push the playoffs off to the summer, if necessary, the AHL may not have that ability. The league has a number of obstacles, which includes travel and revenue issues that it would have to deal with to postpone the rest of the 2019-20 season and the Calder Cup playoffs further into the season.
The AHL has a number of upper-level teams hoping their season will continue with the Milwaukee Admirals, the Nashville Predators’ affiliate, leading the way with a league-leading 90 points this season as it hopes to get a chance to win the Calder Cup. The AHL decided to suspend their season on Thursday.
I think all playoff clubs should meet at a neutral city and play 2 exhibition games. Then seed themselves and play a double elimination tournament. Clubs cannot play three games in 4 days. The city could host 5-6 games per day. And WHY host such event? Most minor pro scouts travel during the playoffs. This serves many needs. Clubs save on travel costs and also curb the potential of re circulating the virus.
I don’t think the AHL will cancel the season & playoffs in the coming days. They may at some point, but they still have time to wait until the playoffs are slated to begin. I think they’ll wait a few more weeks & then decide
It would be an absolute shame if the AHL cancelled… the best season in Milwaukee Admirals history is being had this year…
I think the AHL may cancel the regular season move directly to the playoffs. Perhaps playing best of three opening series, then moving to best of five series for the reminder of the Calder Cup Playoffs.
The AHL should incorporate a rock-paper-scissors best of seven elimination (done through face-time) between all playoff teams to determine the winner.
Another possibility is for the AHL to shorten the regular season to 64 games for the Atlantic, North and Central Divisions. With Pacific Division playing 60 games. Then move to a shorten playoffs using best of three for division series and best of five for conference finals and championship rounds.
sounds unlikely anything happens before may 01.