On Wednesday morning, the ECHL Board of Governors, along with the PHPA, announced a delayed puck drop for the start of the 2020-21 season. This of course is the case due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The revised start date is now December 4th, 2020. This will include a full 72-game schedule. The original start date the ECHL was banking on was October 16th, 2020.
In a statement from ECHL commissioner Ryan Crelin, he said, “We are eager to return to hockey, but at this time we believe this decision is prudent for the safety of our Players, Employees, and Fans. The ECHL and our Board of Governors are focused on the 2020-21 season and remain optimistic for the safe reopening of our venues across the continent. We appreciate our partners and fans continued support and patience, as we work together with our venues, local health officials and the members of the PHPA’s Executive Committee towards the safe return of ECHL hockey.”
Any further adjustments to the upcoming season will be announced at a later date.
With COVID-19 still spiking and however disappointed we may be about the delay, I think we can all agree that we’re pleased that the ECHL and PHPA are keeping the health and safety of everyone in mind.