COVID-19 had a significant impact on the 2019-20 NHL season, including a shortened season, a play-in round, and playoffs that played out in two bubble locations devoid of fans. In the end, it was the Tampa Bay Lightning and Conn Smythe winner Victor Hedman taking down the Dallas Stars in six games, winning their second Stanley Cup trophy.
The season was indeed different than what it is usually like and there is no doubt that the 2020-21 season will be different too. Due to covid-19, the last season was delayed due to continuing concerns and that has led to changes in the new season.