ECHL cancels remainder of season, including playoffs; AHL season reportedly in jeopardy

The ECHL on Saturday canceled the remainder of its 2019-twenty normal season and its playoffs because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“The decision by the ECHL to cancel the remainder of the 2019-twenty season does not come frivolously, as this is an psychological time for our gamers, coaches, member teams, fans and workers,” ECHL commissioner Ryan Crelin reported in a assertion. “As just about every passing day raises further issues for the security of those in the ECHL group and as we acquire precautionary measures in conjunction with our nearby authorities throughout the continent to reduce the unfold of the coronavirus, it has develop into clear that this is the prudent decision.”

Crelin extra that the decision will allow the gamers to return dwelling and eliminate any uncertainty all-around the season.

The news arrives just after the NHL and AHL declared Thursday that they were suspending their 2019-twenty seasons.

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Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston claimed Saturday that the AHL season may also be in jeopardy.

TSN’s Pierre LeBrun claimed that NHL teams were being informed Saturday to make certain to shell out their AHL gamers.

The ECHL was nearing the summary of its 72-sport normal season. The Newfoundland Growlers were being the defending Kelly Cup champions.