Having unveiled last week the final details of its 24-team plan if the season is able to resume this summer in the wake of the onslaught of the coronavirus pandemic, the NHL said teams could reopen facilities and players could take part in limited voluntary workouts beginning Monday. The NHL and NHL Players’ Association must still iron out health and safety protocols before moving ahead with training camps and games.
Players can skate in groups of up to six at a time under “phase 2,” which includes specific instructions on testing, mask-wearing and temperature checks. It's another step closer to the ice after the league said every playoff series will be a best-of-seven format after the initial qualifying round and teams will be reseeded throughout.