Ralph Krueger and the Buffalo Sabres traveled to the center of the hockey world to play the first of 13 games remaining on their regular season schedule.
The Sabres left Montreal wondering when or if they’ll play another NHL game before next season.
The NHL officially suspended its season Thursday with plans to resume “as soon as it is appropriate and prudent,” according to a statement released by Commisioner Gary Bettman, in response to the novel coronavirus outbreak that caused a stoppage in the NBA.
TSN reported NHL teams are barred from holding meetings or practices while the season is suspended. The Rochester Americans will also have their season paused after the American Hockey League followed the NHL’s lead.
The NBA suspended its season late Wednesday night when Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz reportedly tested positive for the coronavirus. Gobert recently played road games in Toronto, Detroit, Boston and New York, all of which have a mix-use facility that host NHL games. Gobert’s teammate, Donovan Mitchell, later tested positive for the virus, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
The decision to temporarily suspend play due to the COVID-19 pandemic is an appropriate course of action at this time. pic.twitter.com/ApudNZvurS
— NHLPA (@NHLPA) March 12, 2020
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