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.
In addition to @FriedgeHNIC report on ECHL cancelling its season, term all-around the American Hockey League is that a potential return will not mirror what happens with the NHL. As well many various variables, together with journey and earnings. They are going through a major obstacle.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) March fifteen, 2020
TSN’s Pierre LeBrun claimed that NHL teams were being informed Saturday to make certain to shell out their AHL gamers.
Notable item from today’s NHL call with GMs: the league instructed teams to make certain to shell out all their AHL gamers as a result of the season suspension. Very same as instructed yesterday in terms of having to pay NHL gamers.
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) March 14, 2020
The ECHL was nearing the summary of its 72-sport normal season. The Newfoundland Growlers were being the defending Kelly Cup champions.