There might be a clearer picture before Christmas as to whether the NHL can host games in Canada.
The League and the five provinces (Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, Alberta, British Columbia) have been talking about how to make an all-Canadian North division function for the 2021 season.
Some reports indicate that the provincial health authorities have sent a letter to the NHL asking for additional measures; if those aren’t met they request a delay to the start of the season.
The League could respond to the letter today as their goal is to start the campaign on January 13.
Provincial Rules
Ontario will enter a 28 day lockdown for the southern portion of the province. The lockdown does allow professional and elite athletes to train within the province but currently prohibits competition.
Quebec is also headed to a lockdown for the holiday season, with its provincial government saying that travel outside of a red zone like Montreal is not recommended unless it’s essential.
Manitoba’s measures require anyone arriving from eastern Canada, like Ontario or Quebec, to self-isolate for 14-days upon arrival. Professional athletes employed by or affiliated with a team from Manitoba are exempt from that rule.
In Alberta group indoor physical activities, including team sports, are prohibited or restricted across the province. The exemption to that rule is the world junior hockey championship in Edmonton.
