Insider reports progress with the NHL's Return to Play Committee

One thing is certain, the NHL seems hellbent on finishing the 2019-20 season, regardless of some concerns expressed by players over the spread of COVID-19. According to TSN Insider Pierre LeBrun, the Return to Play Committee, comprised of league officials and players, continues to meet and progress is being made on a plan.

"Sources indicate the Return To Play Committee has talked throughout the weekend, NHL-NHLPA making progress on a 24-team format, "LeBrun posted to Twitter. "Sources also stressing there's still work to be done, but clearly the weekend has produced some traction. More talks expected over next day or two."

The 24-team format would likely produce a first round best-of-five playdown for teams currently just outside of a playoff position. There have been rumours over how the league will decide which 24 teams are involved, as not all teams had played the same amount of games when the shutdown was implemented in March, but nothing has been set in stone yet.

With the league seemingly returning this summer, it seems all but certain that most, if not all, games will be taking place in empty arenas, or at least ones that are not filled to capacity as physical distancing will likely be a must. Where, exactly, games will take place and whether all teams involved will be able to host home games remains to be seen.

Meanwhile, LeBrun is also reporting that a decision on the NHL draft could come as early as this week.

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