The Western Hockey League remains committed to play hockey this season, despite numerous setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The WHL has pushed back the start of the season on four occasions already. The WHL released the following statement on January 8:
The Western Hockey League announced today the WHL Board of Governors have made a commitment to play a WHL 2020-21 Regular Season. The start date for the season will be determined once final approval has been received from the Health Authorities in each provincial and state jurisdiction and it is anticipated the approvals will be received soon.
All models and schedule formats are being considered by the WHL to ensure a WHL season is provided for the players. The 2020-21 WHL Regular Season will consist of 24 games.
“The Western Hockey League is committed to providing a season for WHL players,” commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. “This commitment ensures WHL players will receive the opportunity to compete at the highest level in the system and continue to pursue their hockey goals in the world’s finest development league for junior hockey players.”
The WHL had previously planned to begin the season on January 8, but announced on December 15 that they would have to delay the season once again. The 68-game regular season typically starts in late September.
