The NHL has repeatedly said it plans to start its abbreviated season Jan. 1. It wants to play 60 games, has admitted it may have to drop it to 48, and hopes to award the Stanley Cup by July 15.
Doable?
From here, no.
Oh, there may be a 48-game season and finishing by July 15 is not out of the question, but starting Jan. 1 seems overly optimistic.
While NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and friends sing their version of "High Hopes," it seems unrealistic to begin the season on New Year's Day as the coronavirus pandemic grows around the world, including on hockey teams at all levels (See the Columbus Blue Jackets, numerous college and junior squads, and the Canadian World Junior team, among countless others.).
In the coming weeks, the list will undoubtedly grow as the virus rages.
