A hypothetical format that would award the top four teams in each Conference a bye would mean the Leafs either take part in a round-robin or a play-in series against an opponent around them in the playoff bubble — with the premature speculation being that it might end up as the Columbus Blue Jackets based on the points percentage standings (8th vs. 9th seed).
A call among the NHLPA’s executive board is expected to take place on Thursday night at 7 p.m. EST to discuss the league’s latest 24-team playoff proposal.
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Bob McKenzie on NHL’s return to play playoff format (TSN1050)
On First Up, Bob McKenzie breaks down the latest discussions among the NHL and NHLPA on return-to-play plans and the possible playoff format — one that could pit the Leafs against the Blue Jackets in a play-in scenario.