Why North Dakota could be perfect destination for NHL to resume 2019-2020 season

The NHL, NHLPA are discussing where a potential resumption could take place

4/7/2020, 1:58 AM
NHL Logoundefined
NHL Logoundefined

Is North Dakota where the NHL will head if its 2019-20 season returns? 

It's an option, says Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, who added that the NHL and NHLPA are both discussing how the logistics of a resumed season could play out. 

Other sports leagues, like the NBA, have also discussed using neutral sites that make sense for everyone involved; Las Vegas has been brought up in the basketball community. 

While there are the facilities to have games -- like Ralph Engelstad Arena in Grand Forks, which held the 2005 World Junior Championships and the 2016 World Under-18 tournament -- Friedman points out hotel availability around the city. 

What will the season look like when it returns? The NHL could jump right into a modified playoff format, which would be painful to see for teams like the Rangers and Islanders who were fighting for a Wild Card spot. 

Players are also worried that their future paychecks could see an escrow percentage on them, which is why they must reach an agreement with the league before anyone touches the ice again. 

Popular in the Community