from Frank Seravalli of TSN,

The two sides are still working through critical date calendars (trade deadline, playoff start and end dates, etc.), divisional realignment, testing and health protocols, roster and taxi squad limits, a potential player opt-out provision, schedule flexibility and how the NHL will navigate any interruptions due to COVID-19 outbreaks and local health authority or government restrictions.

There is no doubt that federal, local and regional health authorities, particularly in Canada, will have a large say in NHL operations for the 2020-21 season. It is unclear whether teams such as the Winnipeg Jets or San Jose Sharks would be permitted to open a season right now in their home arenas.

Those local health authorities, through the government, would likely need to sign off on season plans.

They are not the only ones. Both the NHL’s Board of Governors and the NHLPA’s Executive Board will need to formally approve these changes for the upcoming season, including a two-thirds’ affirmative vote from the owners.

The hope is that an agreement can be reached in coming days to be put up for approval by the end of the week.

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