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SPORT-SCAN DAILY BRIEF NHL 3/14/2020 Red Wings 1180787 says NHL can find ‘credible’ way to finish 1180815 , Tigers set up $1 million fund to cover regular season and award workers' wages 1180788 NHL tells players, staffers to ‘self-isolate’ because of 1180816 Hurricanes broadcaster self-quarantines after staying in coronavirus pandemic same Detroit room as Jazz player 1180789 One day after hitting pause, NHL advises all players to 1180817 Ilitches set up $1M fund to pay arena, theater workers for ‘self-quarantine’ next month 1180818 Detroit pro teams tell fans: Keep your tickets for now 1180819 Wojo: Sadly, the games had to stop before the healing 1180790 All cancellations and postponements for Arizona sports in could begin wake of coronavirus spread 1180820 sets up $1 million fund for part-timers 1180791 Coyotes CEO Ahron Cohen: NHL’s pause is ‘fluid,’ but affected by cancellations resuming games expected 1180821 NHL’s issues statement on what’s next for players 1180822 One day after hitting pause, NHL advises all players to 1180792 A long layoff due to coronavirus could dull the Bruins’ ‘self-quarantine’ sharpness 1180793 Bruins make statement regarding Garden workers Oilers 1180794 How David Pastrnak already has made Bruins history in 1180823 A lot of possibilities for playoffs when NHL returns from suspended season pause 1180795 If the NBA and NHL seasons don't resume, these are the 1180824 JONES: Oilers leave staff in limbo during major award winners NHL pause 1180796 LeBrun: Thoughts on a conversation with Bill Daly about 1180825 brass at a loss for answers as shutdown the NHL shutdown begins 1180826 How Oilers plan to help arena workers unclear with games postponed 1180797 NHL, union express hope that teams can soon open 1180827 Lowetide: NHL season on hold might impact Oilers facilities to players evaluations, summer plans 1180798 By the numbers, the 2010s Sabres teams weren’t much to celebrate 1180828 Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky pledges $100,000 to help pay BB&T Center workers 1180799 Sports bars anticipate struggles amid Flames season 1180829 There won’t be any Heat, Panthers or Marlins games for a pause; fans urged to hold onto tickets while. Here’s what Fox Sports Florida could air inste 1180800 Ken King remembered for firm handshake, determination to seal arena deal 1180801 Flames face uncertainty as they deal with NHL stoppage, 1180830 Gary Bettman says NHL can find ‘credible’ way to finish Ken King’s death regular season and award Stanley Cup 1180831 NHL tells players, staffers to ‘self-isolate’ because of coronavirus pandemic 1180802 Hurricanes making contingency plans for resumption of season 1180803 John Forslund one of two Hurricanes staffers possibly 1180832 NHL players encouraged to 'self-quarantine' by league exposed to coronavirus 1180833 The sports world has stopped before, but it always returns 1180804 ‘Now I’m just scared’: Members of the Hurricanes detail 1180834 When American sports leagues shut down, they got it right quarantine 1180835 COVID-19 and Minnesota sports: From pros to preps, the latest information 1180805 Gary Bettman says NHL players should self-isolate while MontrealCanadiens the season is on hold 1180836 Stu Cowan: Echoes of 1919 — Spanish flu put end to 1180806 Blackhawks ‘Kiss Cam’ favorite Earl Deutsch, owned Canadiens' Cup run Deutsch Luggage, dead at 93 1180807 NHL, NHLPA sign off on quarantine guidelines amid COVID-19 outbreak 1180837 Coronavirus closes : Devils will continue 1180808 The NHL will continue to pay the players amid season to pay hourly, event employees for postponed games, suspension 1180838 Devils’ P.K. Subban on coronavirus suspending NHL 1180809 Blackhawks' practice and community rink, Fifth Third season: ‘There’s bigger things going on’ Arena, closing for at least 2 weeks 1180839 No positive coronavirus tests for any NHL players, says 1180810 Where things stand with Blackhawks as NHL puts hockey Gary Bettman on hold amid COVID-19 pandemic 1180840 NJ Devils owners Josh Harris, David Blitzer pledge to take 1180811 What we’re hearing about the Blackhawks in the wake of care of arena workers the suspended NHL season 1180841 What the coronavirus shutdown means for the Devils at a critical juncture 1180812 Mavericks, Stars to compensate American Airlines Center staff for suspended home games during NBA hiatus 1180842 Commissioner Gary Bettman still hopes to salvage NHL 1180813 Everything fans need to know about ticket refunding season involving Dallas-area sports amid the coronavirus pandemic 1180814 Stars 20/20: What do we do now? Maple Leafs 1180843 Rangers sign first-round pick K’Andre Miller 1180878 Bettman: NHL players in isolation while season is on hold 1180844 Former first-round pick K'Andre Miller agrees to entry-level 1180879 A one-game Stanley Cup final? Playoffs for everyone? contract with NY Rangers Here’s what the post-coronavirus NHL might look like 1180845 With the NHL putting its season on pause, here are 3 1180880 The NHL announced Thursday it was putting its season on questions facing the NY Rangers “pause,” but league commissioner Gary Bettman remains 1180846 NHL suspending Rangers' Brendan Lemieux for hit in 1180881 Leafs had expected playoff spot when NHL hit pause, Avalanche game even if path had twists and turns 1180847 Commissioner Gary Bettman still hopes to salvage NHL 1180882 NHL hopes 2020-21 season can be 'normal' season 1180883 Mirtle: On the Maple Leafs, the coronavirus shutdown and 1180848 If this was it for the 2019-20 Rangers, what does it mean what might come next for Henrik Lundqvist? Senators 1180896 Patrick Johnston: Plenty of questions, few answers as 1180849 'Hang onto your Sens tickets,' says team Canucks head into coronavirus 'pause' 1180850 KEN'S DIARY: The wild week that was while on the road 1180897 Ed Willes: Waiting for brighter days in a sports world in California with the Senators turned dark, upside down 1180851 GARRIOCH: instructed to keep their distance as NHL pause gets underway 1180884 Golden Knights’ Ryan Reaves and Nate Schmidt appear on ‘Bar Rescue’_ 1180852 Wells Fargo Center will pay hourly arena workers for at 1180885 NHL monitors ‘rapidly evolving situation’ with coronavirus least two weeks for games missed because of coronaviru pandemic 1180853 Passionate Flyers fans spoke from the heart, but NHL had 1180886 Celebrate Reuben Sandwich Day with Alex Tuch’s version to stop season | Sam Carchidi 1180887 Sports Events Workers Looking For Freelance Jobs Amid 1180854 As coronavirus concerns put 2019-20 NHL regular season Sports Industry Shutdown Caused By Coronavirus on pause, Flyers send message to their fans Pandemic 1180855 How hardcore Philly sports fans are coping with no games 1180856 Spectacor to pay game-day employees during COVID-19 stoppage this month 1180888 NHL asks all players to self-quarantine in team cities amid 1180857 No positive coronavirus tests for any NHL players, says virus Gary Bettman 1180889 to pay arena workers after Wizards, Capitals games are canceled 1180890 Capitals' Tom Wilson adopts puppy, Cavs' Kevin Love 1180858 Penguins to pay PPG Paints Arena employees during pledges 100K to arena workers stoppage 1180891 NHL 20 Caps simulation: kill saves Washington in 1180859 Mark Madden: This sports shutdown stinks, but greed will sloppy win over Detroit bring the games back 1180892 Ted Leonsis will pay part-time staff at 1180860 There are more questions than answers for the NHL right through March 31 now 1180861 Sidney Crosby, Penguins organization announce plan to Websites pay PPG Paints Arena workers 1180898 The Athletic / I was tested for COVID-19 after an NHL 1180862 Paul Zeise: We're about to find out how important sports road trip. Here’s what it was like really are 1180899 The Athletic / One day after hitting pause, NHL advises all 1180863 NHL memo gives Penguins clarity on next steps after players to ‘self-quarantine’ season is put on hold 1180900 The Athletic / Why an infectious disease expert thinks the 1180864 Their season on hold, the Penguins are ‘still trying to NHL season won’t resume soon process what this means’ 1180901 The Athletic / Duhatschek Notebook: Wickenheiser’s pandemic thoughts, schedule what-ifs and more 1180902 The Athletic / LeBrun: Thoughts on a conversation with Bill 1180865 San Jose Sharks to pay part-time employees for hours lost Daly about the NHL shutdown 1180866 Bettman: NHL players in isolation while season is on hold 1180903 The Athletic / NHL financial impact: How much money 1180867 Sharks to pay SAP Center part-time employees impacted does a team bring in each home game? by coronavirus halt 1180904 .ca / Some of the biggest questions the NHL 1180868 Sharks to pay employees for time missed; no players faces after pausing its season tested yet for COVID-19 1180905 Sportsnet.ca / How NHL ultimately handles draft lottery of great interest to Senators fans St Louis Blues 1180906 Sportsnet.ca / NHL makes wise, safe decision as hearts 1180869 Blues announce postponements, cancellations of ache for hockey community/fan events 1180907 Sportsnet.ca / Flames' Andersson agrees with season 1180870 Blues notebook: Team will make Enterprise 'a healthy pause, unfair to play without fans environment' for fans when play resumes 1180908 Sportsnet.ca / Bettman on halting 2019-20 NHL season, 1180871 Armstrong tells Blues to sit tight for now but be ready to getting 'creative' with playoff format defend Cup when hockey resumes 1180909 Sportsnet.ca / Ken King's firm handshake and dedication 1180872 BenFred: Games stop. Sports don't. And neither will the were driving force behind Flames Post-Dispatch sports team. 1180910 Sportsnet.ca / Rangers' Brendan Lemieux to be 1180873 Blues' blueliners scoring goals at historic rate suspended for hit on Donskoi 1180911 TSN.CA / NHL urges players to ‘self-quarantine’ to help save season 1180874 Lightning’s Vinik Sports Group set to compensate Amalie Arena employees Jets 1180875 NHL to players: Self-isolate during coronavirus break 1180893 Jets' page-turner of a season in limbo 1180876 NHL advises next steps after pausing season for 1180894 Jets should step up for arena workers coronavirus concerns 1180895 Sports figures careful not to make global coronavirus story 1180877 NHL pauses season amid coronavirus pandemic about themselves despite disappointment and challe SPORT-SCAN, INC. 941-284-4129 1180787 Anaheim Ducks have a player test positive was only going to increase the longer we played. And so that was how the decision was made.”

The board of governors signed off on it during a Thursday afternoon Gary Bettman says NHL can find ‘credible’ way to finish regular season conference call. and award Stanley Cup Bettman said he has an internal task force that meets several times a day to discuss the issues the league faces. “What’s the latest we could By HELENE ELLIOTT actually play? How far into the summer can we go? When can we hold the draft? If we can’t hold the draft do we do a conference call? Do we MARCH 13, 20206:31 PM move the awards show? There’s no shortage of things for us to be considering which we’re doing and analyzing,” he said. “But they’re all

contingencies because we don’t know when, and we don’t know the Commissioner Gary Bettman, who halted the NHL season on Thursday circumstances.” because of concerns over the coronavirus pandemic, sounded an Some NHL teams, recognizing that arena employees will suffer without optimistic note on Friday when asked what will happen next for the the paychecks they earn at games, have offered financial help to those league. He did not, however, offer an estimate of how long the league’s employees. The Pittsburgh Penguins said they will pay full and part-time “pause” will last and did not offer specifics on the impact the stoppage arena and service employees at PPG Paints Arena with funds from will have on the remainder of the regular season, the playoffs, or the Penguins players, the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation, and the Mario annual draft. Lemieux Foundation. Billionaire California businessman Ron Burkle is a “I believe that in a credible, sensible way we’ll be able to, at some point, co-owner of the Penguins. complete the season and get through the playoffs and award the Stanley Also, part-time employees at SAP Center, home of the San Jose Sharks, Cup,” Bettman said via phone during an interview aired on the NHL will be paid by Sharks Sports & Entertainment for games they were to Network. have worked the rest of this month involving the Sharks and minor- “I don’t see how I could set a timeframe one way or the other. There are league San Jose Barracuda. And Ilitch Holdings, parent company of the people in the medical community and charged with governmental Detroit Red Wings, set up a $1 million fund “to cover one month’s wages decisions that are ultimately going to make the decision as to when it’s for our part-time staff for games, concerts, and events that they would safe to occupy our buildings with or without fans. So at the end of the have otherwise worked were it not for the recent cancellations and day, a number is just a number. I think it’s better to say OK, we are taking postponements caused by the coronavirus crisis,” the company said in a a pause and we’re focusing on what we need to do when we can come statement. That includes staff at other venues owned or co-owned by the back, when it’s appropriate to come back and safe to come back.” company in Detroit.

A memo sent on behalf of the NHL and the NHL Players’ Assn. to The Ducks said on Thursday that club owners Henry and Susan Samueli, players, teams and agents on Friday advised players to self-quarantine who manage the Honda Center, will pay full-time and part-time workers for six days, after which matters will be reassessed, according to a who were scheduled to work at now-canceled events in the arena the person familiar with the memo but not authorized to speak about it rest of this month. publicly. “The best thing about going home and trying to avoid as many The Southern California Amateur Hockey Assn. canceled the remainder people as possible is that the fewer people you interact with, the less of its playoffs, which were to end with 10 championship games on likely it is that you’ll contract the coronavirus,” Bettman said. “The fact of Sunday at the Toyota Sports Performance Center in El Segundo. the matter is this is an unusual, hopefully once-in-a-lifetime situation and so the first thing we needed to do was take the pause and get the players LA Times: LOADED: 03.14.2020 back to their home cities, get them home, and now we can focus on what comes next.”

In the memo, scenarios were outlined for a resumption of the season. Among them was a scenario of staging a mini training camp for players after public health officials give their approval for large gatherings. However, the ever-changing situation could render that moot. Players will receive the three paychecks they were scheduled to receive for the rest of the regular season.

Players are not allowed to practice in team facilities at the moment, but players who are injured or disabled will be allowed to receive treatment in team facilities starting on Saturday. “Once we get a handle on how many cases we might have, if any, then it may be appropriate at some point for players to be able to work out at the clubs’ facilities, maybe do some skating at the clubs’ facilities,” Bettman said, “as I know they’re anxious to be able to do things other than be at home, and to stay in shape and get back into a routine.”

Bettman said that until Wednesday afternoon he was planning to allow the season to continue with at least some teams playing in buildings without fans, and that he had told owners the league would stop play if an NHL player tested positive for the coronavirus. News that Rudy Gobert of the had tested positive changed the NHL’s course.

“When the Utah Jazz player tested positive and the players couldn’t play the game and the fans in Oklahoma City had to be sent home already having been at the game, it occurred to me quite vividly that it was highly unlikely that we were going to get through the rest of our season without a player testing positive,” Bettman said, “ and I wanted to then get ahead of a scene like the NBA had on Wednesday night and simply stop things and pause so that we could wait to see how the pandemic plays out. ...

“I just decided in light of the fact that this pandemic seems to be affecting more and more people, and the more people you interact with the more likely it is you’re going to come in contact with it, and the fact that two of our teams occupied the locker rooms within 24 hours in the last week of the time the Utah Jazz did, again, the likelihood that we were going to 1180788 Anaheim Ducks The league is determined to award the Stanley Cup even if it means playing in July. The league’s regular season was to conclude April 4, with the playoffs to begin four days later. The last possible day for the Stanley Cup Final was set for June 13. NHL tells players, staffers to ‘self-isolate’ because of coronavirus pandemic “That would be the ,” Bettman said of completing the season. “Health, safety, well-being of the NHL family, especially and including our fans, is most important. If the business considerations and the money were the only thing, then we and a bunch of others would keep playing.” By ELLIOTT TEAFORD | PUBLISHED: March 13, 2020 at 11:19 a.m. | UPDATED: March 13, 2020 at 11:52 a.m. Orange County Register: LOADED: 03.14.2020

What’s next? Now that the NHL has suspended its season because of the COVID-19 virus pandemic, the questions would appear to outnumber the answers by a wide margin as the league sought Friday to take steps to plan for whatever might come next.

Commissioner Gary Bettman told players and staff members to “self- isolate” and stay away from rinks and team training facilities during the hiatus. He said in an interview with The Associated Press and NHL.com that he knew of no known cases involving the league’s players.

“It was clear to me that no matter what scenario we came up with that we continued to play with, either with or without fans, it was inconceivable, certainly unlikely that we were going to get through the rest of the regular season at a minimum without somebody testing positive,” he said.

In fact, Carolina Hurricanes broadcaster John Forslund is self- quarantined at home in suburban Raleigh, North Carolina, after staying in the same hotel room in Detroit as Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert, the first NBA player to test positive for the coronavirus.

Hurricanes videographer Zach Brame also could have been exposed after he stayed in one of three rooms the Centers for Disease Control identified after the the Jazz departed the hotel Saturday and Carolina checked in Sunday, according the Raleigh News and Observer newspaper.

“It’s serious,” Forslund told the paper. “We’ve got to listen to what we’re supposed to do. And act accordingly. … Initially, we were all kind of in the same boat. And look where we are now. It’s a serious thing. You just hope and pray everybody’s going to be OK.”

Bettman also said he didn’t know when the league would resume play. The NBA and Major League Soccer each announced it would suspend play for 30 days. Major League Baseball canceled the remainder of spring training and the first two weeks of the season.

In addition, Bill Daly, the NHL’s deputy commissioner, said in a statement that players should remain in their team’s city for the time being. He didn’t not forbid travel if a player’s family resides in another city or if there are other unusual circumstances, however.

Daly did not provide a date when players could resume working out at the team’s facility.

“We envision there coming a time where we transition direction from ‘stay at home’ to opening club facilities to players to work out and to skate on a voluntary basis in small groups similar to what we generally see prior to the beginning of team training camps,” he said. “At this point, I’m not in a position to say when that will be. We will see how the next week or so plays out.”

Meanwhile, Ducks owners Henry and Susan Samueli, who also operate Honda Center, have decided to continue pay all full- and part-time workers who were scheduled to work events while the arena is shuttered through March 31.

Josh Harris and David Blitzer, the New Jersey Devils’ managing partners, also have pledged to compensate their hourly and event staff at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, while NHL games and other events are suspended.

Kelly Cheeseman, the Kings’ chief operating officer, said during a conference call Thursday he couldn’t provide an immediate answer as to whether AEG would continue to pay arena workers at . He said discussions were ongoing.

Bettman said it would not be strictly up to the NHL as to when it resumes its season. He also didn’t rule out the possibility of playing in empty arenas and added that games would continue only when the situation is deemed to be safe enough to play again. 1180789 Anaheim Ducks

One day after hitting pause, NHL advises all players to ‘self-quarantine’

By Aaron Portzline Mar 13, 2020

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The NHL on Friday advised all of its players to “self-quarantine in their own homes over the next week or so” while the league has locked down its rinks and settled into a “pause” in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.

“While ‘self-quarantine’ will undoubtedly impose lifestyle limitations and may seem like an overly precautious measure,” reads a memo from deputy commissioner Bill Daly to the league’s board of governors, general managers and players, “adherence to the principles for the relatively brief period of time that our medical experts deem important should allow us to be in the best position possible to assess next steps regarding the potential resumption of play.”

So far, no NHL players are known to have been diagnosed with this new strain of the coronavirus, although most NHL clubs have not tested all of their players. In Ohio, for instance, no Blue Jackets players have been tested yet because the state, with too few test kits, determines who gets tested.

Two NBA players — Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz — have been diagnosed with COVID-19, the coronavirus-caused disease.

During the “self-quarantine” period, NHL players are urged to work out in their homes — “not in a public gym,” the memo makes clear — or outside, while maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others.

After the “week or so” of self-quarantine, the league said it hopes to reopen its facilities so that players can resume their workouts, followed by a “training camp period” in which team practices could resume.

It’s made clear that the timeframe to reopen facilities and hold a “training camp period” are fluid.

The league has cautioned players against holding “player skates” away from the NHL rinks, similar to what most teams do in the buildup to training camp.

“It is important that players maintain their personal fitness and readiness to resume play to the extent reasonably possible,” the memo states, while adding, “(the league) will ensure that players are afforded sufficient time to resume skating and game preparation activities prior to any resumption of play.”

Players have been ordered to stay in their club’s city unless their immediate family lives elsewhere in North America. A player is required to inform the general manager if he wants to “self-quarantine” in a home outside the club’s city.

Injured players are allowed to continue getting treatment, the memo states.

It also assures players that they’ll continue to be paid. There are three pay cycles remaining in the 2019-20 season, including the paycheck players received Friday.

Finally, the league’s memo requests that club officials “refrain from commenting publicly on, or speculating about, what approaches the league might take in response to the dynamics of the current situation.”

It is widely believed that the NHL regular season is now finished for clubs with no chance of making the playoffs. But how the league proceeds on the other side of the “pause” — who makes the playoffs, how seeding is determined, etc. — could depend on how long the “pause” lasts.

And that’s anybody guess.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180790 Arizona Coyotes The NBA announced that it would be suspending the 2019-2020 season indefinitely on Wednesday. This came after Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert tested positive for COVID-19. Since then, teammate Donovan Mitchell has tested positive as well. All cancellations and postponements for Arizona sports in wake of coronavirus spread The Suns have 17 games left in their season.

"This is an unprecedented and fluid situation, so we ask for everyone’s patience and understanding as we sort through this process," the Suns Katherine Fitzgerald, Arizona RepublicPublished 5:09 p.m. MT March 12, said in a statement Thursday. 2020 | Updated 11:30 a.m. MT March 13, 2020 Colleges/NCAA

The NCAA announced Thursday that it is canceling all remaining winter To cut down on the possibility of spreading the novel coronavirus, and spring championships, including March Madness. COVID-19, in large group settings, sports teams and leagues have taken rapid steps to ensure the safety of players, staff, fans and the community. Prior to this, Arizona State had already cancelled all athletic events The NBA decided Wednesday to suspend the season, and Thursday indefinitely, in compliance with the Pac-12 decision Thursday morning. brought a rippling effect across the sports world. The Pac-12 decision affected Arizona as well. ASU is providing credit toward future ticker purchases for individual game tickets to upcoming Arizona, home to numerous professional and collegiate teams, as well baseball and softball games. Season ticket holders will receive credit as the site of Spring Training for half of the MLB, has seen a huge impact well. due to coronavirus concerns. Here is how Arizona teams and leagues have been affected. Grand Canyon University had shut down spring sports in accordance with a Western Athletic Conference decision. At this time, many logistics, like policies on ticket refunds and rescheduled games, have yet to be determined. Check back with The cancellation of all NCAA championships includes the men's and sports.azcentral.com for updates as this evolves. women's golf tournaments in Scottsdale.

Cardinals/NFL Rising/USL

The NFL has the benefit of not being in season right now, and has not The USL Championship announced Thursday the decision to suspend made any decisions on April's draft or upcoming OTAs. Individual teams the 2020 for a minimum of 30 days. have changed their travel policies for coaches and scouts, as well as "We strongly support the league’s decision to suspend games in an effort moved other employees to working remotely. to help fight against the spread of COVID-19," Phoenix Rising FC said in On Friday, the Cardinals took similar steps, announcing that starting a statement. "We will continue to work with the league and local health Monday, "with very limited exceptions for operationally critical personnel officials to monitor the situation and will pass along more information as it – all staff have been asked to work from home for the remainder of the becomes available. month, at which point the situation will be re-evaluated." PBR Glendale Invitational They have also suspended all non-essential travel, including coaches There is something still currently scheduled to happen: bull riding. The and scouts. The statement from the team said that this is all preventative, PBR Glendale Invitational is still slated to take place at Gila River Arena as there is “no knowledge of a single positive test for the Coronavirus starting March 21. This weekend, the PBR stop in Georgia will proceed within the organization.” with no fans in attendance. PBR released the following statement to The The NFL has canceled the annual spring meeting, as well as the 2020 Republic: HBCU Combine and the 2020 Regional Combine Invitational. "Preparations for the PBR Glendale Invitational presented by Cooper Coyotes/NHL Tires on March 21-22 are proceeding as planned. The health and safety of our fans, riders, partners and employees remains a top priority, and as The NHL decided Thursday to pause the 2019-2020 season. The such we — alongside Gila River Arena and local authorities — are Coyotes were scheduled to play the Vancouver Canucks Thursday in closely monitoring the COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation." Glendale. Other teams and events "We will be communicating to our business partners, season ticket holders and other affected parties with additional information soon," the The LPGA has postponed the Volvik Founders Cup, which was set to team said in a statement. take place March 19-22 at the Wildfire Golf Club at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa. Diamondbacks/MLB The WBSC Olympic baseball qualifying tournament in Surprise and The MLB announced Thursday that Spring Training games have been Tempe has been postponed suspended and that the start of the regular season will be delayed by at least two weeks. The Indoor Football League, which includes the Tucson Sugar Skulls, announced Thursday that it will be postponing its season until further Outside of the Diamondbacks themselves, 14 other teams are currently notice following Saturday night’s games in Oakland and San Diego. in Arizona for Spring Training. Jason Kipnis, an Arizona State alum who plays for the Cubs, tweeted a series of "early questions from players" The Arizona Tennis Classic, the ATP Challenger Tour event scheduled about the changes. for March 16-22, has been canceled.

"(Do) we go home now? Stay and train? How/when do we start back Arizona Republic LOADED: 03.14.2020 up?" he tweeted Thursday. "...(This) is wild."

Mercury/WNBA

The WNBA is in its off-season, but released a statement Thursday.

"With regard to COVID-19, we are in touch with the teams, consulting with infectious disease specialists and monitoring guidance from the CDC and WHO," Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said in a statement.

The draft is currently scheduled for April 17, with the start of training camp on April 26 and the start of the regular season on May 15. The league plans on sharing more details later this month. Five Mercury players are currently overseas, in Russia, Turkey and Australia.

Suns/NBA 1180791 Arizona Coyotes

Coyotes CEO Ahron Cohen: NHL’s pause is ‘fluid,’ but resuming games expected

BY MATT LAYMAN | MARCH 13, 2020 AT 10:53 AM

UPDATED: MARCH 13, 2020 AT 2:55 PM

Arizona Coyotes CEO Ahron Cohen joins The Doug & Wolf Show for an interview on 98.7 FM Arizona’s Sports Station on Feb. 13, 2019. (Arizona Sports/Matt Layman)

It’s starting to sound like a broken record, but maybe because it’s the only certainty: The coronavirus outbreak and its far-reaching consequences comprise a “fluid” situation.

Nobody can say for sure how long the — or any other league — will be on hiatus after the NHL announced Thursday that it was pausing the season amid fears of COVID-19. Arizona Coyotes president and CEO Ahron Cohen admitted to Doug & Wolf on Arizona Sports even he didn’t expect this outcome mere days ago.

“At the start of the week, this was certainly not the expectation that we were going to be sitting here Friday morning talking about the league being put on pause,” he said.

Cohen said it started with safeguarding players from fan interactions and also protecting the fans themselves. The Coyotes put out a statement on Wednesday outlining how the team planned to enhance fan safety for Thursday night’s game against the Vancouver Canucks.

Twenty-four hours later, the game was called off.

The NHL followed suit with the NBA, which suspended its season after Utah Jazz star Rudy Gobert tested positive for coronavirus. Gobert’s teammate, Donovan Mitchell, also reportedly tested positive.

The Jazz played on Monday in Toronto at Arena, which is also home to the NHL’s . The Jazz were at Little Ceasars Arena, T.D. Garden and Madison Square Garden this month, which all are mixed-use facilities that house both NBA and NHL teams.

“Quite frankly, there are a number of teams that, over the last 10 days or so, were in the same visitor locker room a day behind the Utah Jazz,” Cohen said. “So there’s certainly a concern there.

“There’s no strict metric or guideline as to when it’s going to be ready to come back and play hockey. The guiding principle there is, when it’s safe and prudent, the NHL will resume.”

Still, Cohen said repeatedly that the expectation is to eventually resume the season.

“These are unprecedented times and everything is very fluid right now,” he said. “I think first and foremost, the goal of everyone and the goal of myself and our team is to make sure that our employees and players and fans and really everybody in this great state of Arizona is as safe as possible.”

For now, the Coyotes’ hockey operations department is on hold, as general manager John Chayka told reporters on a conference call Thursday.

“All the hockey operations staff, whether it’s our [AHL] team, our NHL team, players, coaches, trainers, extending to scouts and player development, the message is simple and it’s consistent: In the near term, it’s go home. Be safe,” Chayka said. “Stay at home until directed otherwise. Until things start to stabilize and we get other direction from the league, that’s our mandate.”

Arizona Sports LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180792 Boston Bruins hockey, one that returns largely intact from last year. The leadership (Chara, Bergeron, and Co.) has been in place for several years, battled through long playoff runs and taken international trips together. Players are comfortable communicating with each other and their bosses. A long layoff due to coronavirus could dull the Bruins’ sharpness This is not like the layoff before last year’s Stanley Cup Final, when the Bruins had 10 days between games. They were practicing that whole time. For now, they are resting and healing as best they can (without By Matt Porter Globe Staff,Updated March 13, 2020, 5:06 p.m. access to the top-flight treatment they enjoy at Warrior Ice Arena), and trying to keep the blood flowing.

Ideally, if concerned citizens remain actively cautious, Covid-19 will soon Even newcomers Nick Ritchie and Ondrej Kase, both of whom arrived be contained to the point we can have our lives back. from Anaheim late last month, came here knowing a few faces. Chris Wagner, who played with both on the Ducks, and David Pastrnak (a Our sports would return in kind. Czech junior teammate of Kase’s) have likely been in contact.

How soon remains unclear. But science tells us there is an end, Perhaps Ritchie and Kase could hold a video chat session with Krejci, somewhere, as long as we keep taking care of ourselves and each other. their potential center. Gotta do something to fill the time.

So here’s a sunny-side-up, coffee-mug-topped-off view from the hockey Boston Globe LOADED: 03.14.2020 corner of the world: The NHL could actually benefit from a short break.

If it lasts a few weeks, the Great Pause of 2020 might be OK for the NHL. Unexpected time without games and practices could offer valuable rest and recovery time for players who have pounded through approximately 85 percent of their season. They will be rusty upon return, but not cripplingly so.

Some feet-up time would benefit the Bruins, whose soon-to-be-43-year- old , Zdeno Chara, was averaging 21 minutes, 1 second of ice time before the layoff, and whose top two centers, 34-year-old Patrice Bergeron and 33-year-old David Krejci, have dealt with nagging injuries for several seasons. Netminder Tuukka Rask, 33, said last week his managed workload (41 starts) has left him fresh, but a bit more rest can’t hurt.

If the break lasts a few months, or longer … we sail deeper into uncharted waters. It will start to look like a mini-offseason. When they take extended breaks, players’ hands grow dull. Their skating legs weaken. Goalies lose their puck-tracking sharpness.

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said the league wants to award the Stanley Cup at the end of this season, whatever is left of it. As club and league executives teleconferenced with each other Thursday and Friday, players were at home awaiting further instruction.

The Bruins’ media relations department did not make team president or general manager Don Sweeney available to the media, referring inquiries to the brief series of similar statements the team released Thursday.

NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly told TSN on Friday that the "general expectation is that players will remain in their club’s home cities absent unusual circumstances.” A player who was recently called up from the minors and does not live in the area permanently, for example, would be permitted to go home.

Daly said the next step — still TBD — is a return to currently closed practice facilities for voluntary, small group skates, similar to captains’ practices at the beginning of training camp.

"At this point, I'm not in a position to say when that will be," Daly told TSN. "We will see how the next week or so plays out."

Daly said there will not be mandatory testing for players, only testing on those with symptoms, "as appropriate."

The league is recommending players not work out on the ice "during this initial phase of the pause," Daly said. “Once we move into the next phase," he said, and players are "training" to resume play, they will work out on a more standard schedule. During the pause, he told The Athletic, players will be paid.

It’s difficult not to think of hourly workers, both in buildings and nearby, and those who make their living by serving big crowds at this time of year. As of Friday afternoon, TD Garden and Delaware North, both helmed by Bruins owner and his family, had not announced whether they would pay employees who can’t clock in (some of their peers, like of the NBA’s , said they would pay workers their usual rates). Around the refurbished Hub on Causeway, local businesses were bracing for a tough stretch.

On the ice, the Bruins seem as well-suited as any team to navigate this unprecedented stretch. They have one of the most experienced groups in 1180793 Boston Bruins

Bruins make statement regarding Garden workers

By STEVE CONROY | PUBLISHED: March 13, 2020 at 6:58 p.m. | UPDATED: March 13, 2020 at 6:58 p.m.

With sports arenas going dark across the continent because of the coronavirus, pledges of financial support to full-time and part-time employees who are out of work because of the stoppages from various ownership groups have been pouring in, as well as a couple from athletes themselves.

Owners of NBA and NHL teams such as the Dallas Mavericks, /Capitals, Anaheim Ducks and Toronto Maple Leafs, to name a few organizations, have announced plans to pay their arena employees at least part of the wages lost during this crisis. Also, Kevin Love of the and Sergei Bobrovsky of the Florida Panthers have pledged to donate $100,000 for workers in their respective arenas.

Responding to a Herald inquiry about what Delaware North, the parent company that owns the Bruins and TD Garden, was planning to do to assist its workers, Bruins VP of marketing and communications Matt Chmura released a statement:

“Delaware North has operations in over 50 sports stadiums, ballparks and arenas throughout the world,” said Chmura in the statement. “The hardworking associates at each location, including TD Garden, are facing great challenges due to the impact of COVID-19 on the sports industry. Delaware North at its core is a family company and our top priority is to provide our associates, and their families, with the assurances they deserve during this difficult time. We are actively exploring support options and will have further information in the coming days.”

Boston Herald LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180794 Boston Bruins

How David Pastrnak already has made Bruins history in suspended season

By Darren Hartwell March 13, 2020 2:10 PM

The quest for 50 goals will have to wait. The race for the Hart Trophy has been put on hold.

But even if the NHL season ended today -- words that actually have meaning after the league suspended play Thursday due to the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak -- David Pastrnak still would have a place in the Boston Bruins' record books.

Pastrnak is enjoying a breakout 2019-20 season for the Bruins, with 95 points (48 goals and 47 assists) through 70 games. Those 48 goals tie Pastrnak with Washington Capitals star for the NHL lead.

Bean: Who wins NHL, NBA awards if seasons don't resume?

And if no more games are played -- or if Pastrnak outscores Ovechkin when games resume -- Pastrnak would become the first Bruin in 45 years to win the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy as the NHL's leading goal scorer, according to Boston Sports Info.

The 23-year-old winger would become just the second Bruin to lead the NHL in goals outside Hall of Famer , who was the NHL's leading goal-scorer in six consecutive seasons from 1969 to 1975.

Pastrnak has scored 20 of those 48 goals on the power play -- which also puts him in the record books as the youngest Bruin to tally 20 or more power play goals in a single season, per Boston Sports Info.

Of the six other Bruins players to score at least 20 power play goals in a season, three are in the . Not too shabby.

Considering Boston owns the NHL's best record (100 points) and Pastrnak is two goals away from being the team's first 50-goal scorer since Cam Neely in 1993-94, Bruins fans are hopeful the NHL can resume play in the near future.

Make no mistake, though: Pastrnak already has plenty of feathers in his cap.

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180795 Boston Bruins Selke Trophy: Sean Couturier, Flyers This one's tough. My vote would be Patrice Bergeron because I think

he's better. That said, he missed time that Couturier hasn't, leading If the NBA and NHL seasons don't resume, these are the major award Couturier to give him the edge in points (59 to Bergeron's 56). winners When you add in that Couturier leads the league in faceoff percentage (Bergeron is fifth), it's reasonable to think voters will give the Flyers center his first win before giving Bergeron his fifth. By DJ Bean March 13, 2020 12:30 PM Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 03.14.2020

"If the season ended today."

Of all the cringeworthy things we say in sports, it's perhaps the most cringeworthy.

But, like ... what if the season did end?

Two leagues have hit the pause button right before the stretch run, which is just wildly unsatisfying. Around now, we should be talking about playoff seeding, MVPs and more.

We can leave the playoff simulations to the video game people, but if the NBA and NHL regular seasons are dunzo, here are the winners.

NBA

MVP: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks

The Freak goes back to back. The guy is top three in points per game and rebounds per game, plus he's led an otherwise not-great roster to the best record in the NBA.

Rookie of the Year: Ja Morant, Grizzlies

There’s obvious temptation to put Zion Williamson here because of how sensational he’s been since missing the first three months.

That said, Morant has played like a veteran All-Star at a position that’s supposed to take a couple years to develop in the pros. He’s got the Grizzlies in the playoffs, for gosh’s sake.

Most Improved Player: Brandon Ingram, Pelicans

Jayson Tatum might have become the favorite here if they'd played a couple more weeks before stopping. Ingram's 24.3 points per game in his first season with the Pelicans put him ahead of Tatum (23.6 points).

However, Tatum has taken off so much since late January (28.6 points per game since Jan. 30 compared to Ingram's 21.8) that he'd have likely passed Ingram after 82 games.

Sixth Man: Lou Williams, Clippers

I don't know, probably?

NHL

Hart Trophy: Leon Draisaitl, Oilers

A no-brainer. Drasaitl has been the best player in the league this year, and his 15-point lead on the rest of the NHL in points (110 through 71 games) illustrates that.

Where might David Pastrnak (tied for the league in goals) finish in the race if it were decided today? I'll say fourth behind Drasaitl, Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid.

Vezina Trophy: Tuukka Rask, Bruins

You love to see it. Rask ranks first in save percentage (.929) among goalies with at least 30 starts, and his five shutouts are tied for second in the league.

Connor Hellebuyck (tops in the NHL with six shutouts) has 56 starts to Rask's 41, but only one goalie the last decade has won the Vezina with a save percentage as low as his (.922).

Norris Trophy: John Carlson, Capitals

From Natick to Norris. Carlson has 74 points in 69 games, plays 24:38 minutes a game and does so against tough competition.

From the "WHAT?!" category: Dougie Hamilton would have been a finalist if he didn't get hurt. Dude had 14 goals and 40 points in 47 games. 1180796 Boston Bruins His answer was “Yes.’’ The players as of Thursday had three payday’s remaining: March 13 (today), March 30 and April 15. The league’s directive to teams is to pay the players. Now, where it gets interesting moving forward is how much money the players essentially will have to LeBrun: Thoughts on a conversation with Bill Daly about the NHL pay back in the form of escrow. As one team executive explained to me shutdown on Friday, if the projected $5 billion in revenues for this season becomes let’s say $4 billion (just picking a random number) depending on the

impact of fewer games (or no more games), then suddenly the players’ By Pierre LeBrun Mar 13, 2020 50-50 share just went from $2.5 billion to $2 billion. Do the math. The players can’t make more than 50 percent of the pie. There would be rather large escrow payments. Listen, don’t get me wrong, I’m way more concerned about the arena workers and staff whose lives are going to be Once, for a story, I spent the day in Bill Daly’s office. turned upside down the next several weeks, they’re the real financial In fact, it was the first piece I wrote for The Athletic two and a half years victims here. But it’s still interesting to try and forecast what all this ago, chronicling a day in the life of the busiest man in hockey. means for the players and owners in the NHL. To which another team executive wondered if the players would want to at least forgo the April It was chaotic — multi-tasking takes on a whole new meaning for Daly. I 15 payday to start balancing the books. Who knows. And right now, it’s remember thinking that day that maybe Daly was his own worst enemy not the No. 1 thought for anyone involved. because he’s involved in almost every facet of the NHL’s operation, right down to some things you’d figure he’d let other people worry about. Importance of an 82-game season

But it speaks to the work ethic and devotion he has for the job as the No. To start, his last response debunked something I speculated on TSN on 2 man in the NHL. Thursday when I said that the playoffs were so important to the NHL that it would do all it could to complete the postseason deep into the summer, I remember leaving that day feeling like I needed to drink five martinis. even if it means shortening next season. The fact that Daly’s answer was And all I did was watch him work all day. a firm no reminds me how important an 82-game regular season is not I bring this up because I can only imagine what the last few days have just for owners but for players as well, due to their 50-50 partnership of been like for NHL’s Deputy Commissioner. There is no handbook for a hockey-related revenues. novel virus crashing down on the world and shutting down your sport. So yes, the league and the NHLPA no doubt would love to resume this And while it’s my job as a journalist to make inquiries with him, I do feel a season and have the playoffs, especially award a Stanley Cup champion. bit bad when I’m adding to his long to-do list. But next season being whole is equally important. Another factor to consider is that players get paid during the regular season and not the In the middle of all that craziness on Thursday, while I was on air for six playoffs. But the fact teams have been asked about their July building hours at TSN, I emailed him six questions. Not surprisingly, given what availability tells you the NHL is ready to go late in a bid to get its playoffs was going on, he responded on Friday morning. in.

Here were my questions and Daly’s responses: Should fans stay away?

Do we know if any NHL players have tested positive for coronavirus? Daly didn’t have an answer, really, for the empty arena question because it’s too early to tell what the landscape when play resumes. I think you’re We do not have any information that suggests an NHL Player has tested going to see some people suggest the NHL should return to empty positive for the coronavirus. arenas in order to maintain the avoidance of large gatherings.

Is the plan to get all NHL players tested for it as soon as possible? However, when players are away from the rink, they go home and re- Our medical experts are not advising a mass-testing of all of our players. enter society. At some point during their daily lives, whether that’s getting Besides the fact that there would be insufficient testing resources to groceries or walking the dog, they will encounter other people. If any accommodate such a direction, the medical professionals don’t believe it player gets infected and then returns to the rink for a playoff game, well, is necessary. Part of the purpose of the pause is to let people relax and you know the rest of the drill. I’m not saying it doesn’t make sense to to see if anyone is sick and develops symptoms. return with empty arenas, it’s just that I don’t think the NHL should return until health authorities feel much better about whether the spread has Any decision on the NHL Draft in (and combine in Buffalo)? I been controlled in our communities. heard from one source that the draft in Montreal is likely to be held via phone, no big gathering as an event? Schedules and formats

No decisions on the combine or the draft at this point. The only thought to Question No. 4 is on the minds of many NHL team executives. When it is conducting an on-line draft (or one conducted safe to do so, what’s a fair way to resume play if there isn’t time for each telephonically/technologically) would be if there would be a need to do team to play all 82 regular-season games? Different team executives so. have thrown all kinds of ideas my way over the past 24 hours. But they’re all just spitballing because, as Daly said, the league isn’t there yet. But it Any decision on whether the regular season is now over and when the won’t stop team execs from dreaming up scenarios and passing them on season resumes it will be the playoffs right away? to the league.

No. Form and format of resumption of play scenarios will depend entirely I’ve heard everything from play-in scenarios for the bubble teams to on what transpires between now and then and, ultimately, on timing and allowing all 31 teams a chance to make it. It’s all over the place as far as logistical constraints. ideas. I’m not a fan of allowing the bottom feeders back into the playoff orbit. Not when 85 percent of the regular season has been played and it’s Will games resume in front of empty arenas? been determined your team played itself out of it. But I don’t mind the Premature to say what the situation will look like when we resume play. bubble teams, play-in idea. You obviously need to have an even number of teams in the play-in scenario, so either you’re going top 10 in each If the NHL playoffs go into July and/or August, could there be a conference remains alive, or top 12. The problem in the East is there’s a shortened regular season next year? clear drop-off between No. 11 Florida/Rangers and No. 12 Montreal. But if you go top 10, you’re either lopping off the Panthers or Rangers No. depending on points or points percentage. In the West, top 10 means I had about 10,000 other questions I would have wanted to ask, but going you exclude Arizona, top 12 means you include Arizona and Chicago. back to the top of this piece, other people need Daly’s time and they’re Whatever the league ends up doing, if the season does resume, it won’t way more important than me. please every owner. That’s going to be one of the most difficult things for commissioner Gary Bettman to navigate on the hockey side of things. Before getting into my thoughts on Daly’s responses, I did had a follow- up question on Friday that revealed some important news. Are players Draft will be different going to get paid during this pause, regardless of whether the season resumes or not? I find it hard to believe the draft in Montreal will look the same. Look no further than what the NHL did after the 2004-05 lockout. There was a July 30-31, 2005 draft in Ottawa in a smaller venue with way fewer prospects and people on hand. Depending on where health authorities feel things are this summer, the draft has to be impacted in some way or another.

Let’s hope the focus of our worry soon returns to the games, because it will mean getting back to normalcy, instead of coping with the real-life threat of this virus.

Stay safe and healthy, everyone.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180797 Buffalo Sabres seasons. The NHL had already barred scouts from traveling overseas and some teams ordered theirs to not make any trips in North America.

The International Federation announced Friday that it was NHL, union express hope that teams can soon open facilities to players canceled the Under-18 World Championships scheduled for mid-April in Michigan.

The cancellation is due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic that has By Lance Lysowski caused major disruptions to sporting events around the world. The tournament was scheduled to take place from April 16-26 in Plymouth Published Fri, Mar 13, 2020|Updated Fri, Mar 13, 2020 and Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.

It remains unclear if the coronavirus outbreak will impact the NHL Players around the National Hockey League now have a better idea what Scouting Combine, which is scheduled to take place in Buffalo from June to expect while the season is halted because of the coronavirus 1-6. outbreak. The joint memo Friday also encouraged players to work out at home or The NHL and NHL Players' Association expressed hope in a joint memo exercise outdoors while practicing social distancing. Players also will Friday that team facilities can soon be reopened for small-group continue to receive a paycheck over the final three pay periods. workouts following a six-day period of "self-quarantine" for players, Pegula Sports and Entertainment and Delaware North announced according to TSN. Pending containment of the global pandemic, the Thursday they would be adhering to the following preventative measures league then wants to have a training camp period in which game laid out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: enhanced preparation can resume. Commissioner Gary Bettman repeated his sanitization of high-traffic and concession areas in KeyBank Center and preference to finish the season and award the Stanley Cup. installation of hand-sanitizer stations. According to TSN, the joint memo instructed players to remain in their Buffalo News LOADED: 03.14.2020 respective team's city while avoiding travel and, although team facilities will be open to anyone rehabbing an injury, alternatives are encouraged, such as receiving advice remotely from medical staff.

Bettman told the Associated Press earlier Friday that he was not aware of any player or league employee testing positive for the coronavirus, but he could not say for certain that no one is experiencing symptoms or awaiting test results.

Bettman's comments came hours after Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly told TSN that a player will only be tested if symptoms are exhibited.

In addition to suspending the season Thursday, the NHL barred its clubs from holding practices or team meetings. NHL Players’ Association chief Don Fehr told the Associated Press on Friday he expects NHL teams will be cleared to reopen their facilities to players as early as next week.

However, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said Thursday during an interview on TNT he expects his league's hiatus to last "at least 30 days."

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 mixed-use facility that host NHL games. Gobert's teammate, Donovan Mitchell, later tested positive.

The Raleigh News & Observer reported Friday morning that Carolina Hurricanes broadcaster John Forslund is one of two team employees in self-quarantine after he stayed in Gobert's recently vacated Detroit hotel room.

“It was clear to me that no matter what scenario we came up with that we continued to play with, either with or without fans, it was inconceivable, certainly unlikely, that we were going to get through the rest of the regular season at minimum without somebody testing positive,” Bettman told the Associated Press on Friday.

In a statement released Thursday, the Sabres said they are in "full support" of the NHL pausing its season and urged community members to practice measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Additionally, the team reminded fans that games have not been canceled and all purchased tickets will be valid for rescheduled dates.

The Sabres have 13 games, six in KeyBank Center, remaining on their schedule. The team has a 30-31-8 record and its 68 points are tied for the third-fewest in the Eastern Conference, a potential ninth consecutive season without playoff hockey in Buffalo.

Pegula Sports and Entertainment issued the following statement on whether it will pay part-time employees who will lose income while events are on hold as a number of other teams in the NHL and NBA are doing: "As of now we expect the games to be rescheduled. We are evaluating next steps should the games be canceled."

The , ECHL and junior hockey leagues around North America also indefinitely suspended their seasons with the hope of resuming at a later date. Switzerland, Finland and Germany are among the 10 European-based hockey leagues to cancel the remainder of their 1180798 Buffalo Sabres 1990s 3

3 By the numbers, the 2010s Sabres teams weren’t much to celebrate 2000s

1 By John Vogl Mar 13, 2020 1

2010s Obviously, the 2020s haven’t started well. The coronavirus has become a worldwide pandemic and ground the sports world to a halt. The 6 postponement of the NHL schedule includes the Sabres’ 2010s Night that was scheduled for Friday. 3

There wouldn’t have been much to celebrate. After the insanely stable 2000s saw just coach Lindy Ruff and GM Darcy Regier, the tide turned in 2013. Ruff gave way to Ron Rolston, Ted The decade was by far the worst in Buffalo’s 50-year history. There were Nolan, Dan Bylsma, Phil Housley and Ralph Krueger. Regier ceded his too many losses, too few playoffs and so many players that it was easy chair to Tim Murray and Jason Botterill. to lose count. People don’t stay when teams don’t win. It was a rough decade. The For example: Hey, Zemgus Girgensons, how many teammates have you 2010s had the fewest wins, the most losses and, obviously, the worst had since joining the Sabres in 2013? points percentage.

“Oh my god,” he said. “It has to be like 120 probably?” 1970s

The forward almost nailed it. Girgensons has taken the ice with 130 357 skaters and goalies in just seven seasons. Not surprisingly, the Sabres used more players in the 2010s than any other decade. 261

1970s 132

87 0.564

10 1980s

97 387

1980s 294

112 121

10 0.558

122 1990s

1990s 348

127 315

13 118

140 0.521

2000s 2000s

93 374

12 272

105 94

2010s 0.569

145 2010s

17 311

162 374

“Someone mentions a name and you’re kind of like, ‘Oh, man, I played 103 with that guy,’” Girgensons said. “There’s been a lot of bodies coming in 0.460 and out. You make a lot of friends along the way, but at the same time there’s been a lot of friends going away, too.” As bad as the points percentage is – and it’s bad, ranking 30th in the NHL, just ahead of Edmonton (.452) – it’s bolstered by a respectable The turnover extended to the bench and front office. The Sabres burned start to the decade. From Jan. 1, 2010, through April 26, 2013, the through coaches and general managers during the 2010s, though that’s Sabres were 124-98-33. That points percentage of .551 ranked 16th in actually not all that new. the NHL.

1970s But after the 2012-13 season ended, the Sabres won just 187 of 533 6 games – a dead-last points percentage of .417.

3 “The first years, it was kind of tough,” said Girgensons, who arrived at the same time as the drought. “A lot of things were happening the first years, 1980s but going through it, it teaches you how to handle that stuff.” 7

2 While Girgensons knows how to handle the lows, he wants to make something clear. The idea that he and other longtime Sabres have “gotten used to losing” is infuriating.

“That’s one of the things that would kind of piss me off if someone said that to me,” Girgensons said. “You go into every game trying to win. As an athlete, I don’t think you can ever get used to losing. That’s never been the mindset of anyone here.”

While it may not be the mindset, it’s the reality. The 2010s featured the fewest playoff teams and the fewest series wins.

1970s

6

5

1980s

8

4

1990s

9

7

2000s

4

5

2010s

2

0

“That’s the ultimate goal, first to get in the playoffs and then the next level would be to win the whole thing,” Girgensons said. “That would mean the world to me. That’s why you grew up playing hockey, you know?”

Alas, the eight-year playoff drought to end the 2010s will extend into 2020, regardless of whether the NHL resumes its schedule. The hope is the rest of the decade goes better.

In the meantime, here’s one last look at the Sabres of the 2010s with “awards” befitting the forgettable decade.

Shortest shift: Forward Dalton Smith, who had the decade’s lowest total ice time at 1 minute, 26 seconds.

The One-Game Club: Forwards Sean Malone, Joel Armia and Smith; defenseman Nathan Paetsch; and goaltenders Adam Wilcox, Andrey Makarov and Jason Kasdorf.

Skaters with no points: Matt Tennyson (19 games), Daniel Catenacci (11), Jerry D’Amigo and Kyle Criscuolo (9), Brady Austin, Colin Stuart and Joe Finley (5), John Gilmour and Will Borgen (4), Danny O’Regan and Zach Redmond (3), Mark Parrish, Erik Burgdoerfer and Derek Whitmore (2), and Jean-Sebastian Dea, Smith and Malone (1).

Mr. Minus: Rasmus Ristolainen at minus-141. The defenseman was minus-129 at even strength with a decade-worst 447 goals allowed.

Most penalty minutes: Defenseman Mike Weber with 376.

Worst save percentage: Kasdorf at .867. He also had the highest goals- against average at 4.00.

Goalies with no wins: Connor Knapp and Drew MacIntyre (two games) and Kasdorf, Wilcox and Makarov (one each).

Shortest coaching tenure: Rolston, who lasted 51 games with a 19-26-6 record. Amazingly, his winning percentage of .373 was higher than Housley’s .354 and Nolan’s .278.

All those numbers make it easy to say farewell to the decade.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180799 Calgary Flames If an event is cancelled, Ticketmaster said it would automatically send full refunds.

Ticket resale website StubHub said for cancelled events, customers Sports bars anticipate struggles amid Flames season pause; fans urged would have the option of receiving a full refund or a StubHub coupon to hold onto tickets worth 120 per cent of the original order.

Dome employees await word on pay

Sammy Hudes Economists say the lack of sporting events will have a “knock-in” effect, for businesses including pubs and restaurants, along with arena Publishing date:10 hours ago employees who stand to lose work days.

Dublin Calling manager Chris Burchnall said a few large parties have already cancelled for next week “because of everything that’s going on.” At Jamesons Pub, a typical Saturday night featuring the Calgary Flames at home to the would be bustling with hockey fans looking “We’re expecting to have a large impact from the lack of sports being to grab a beer and watch the game. on,” said Burchnall, adding the Killarney bar is considering reduced hours or menus if things get worse. But at a time of year when the 17th Avenue establishment usually thrives, according to owner Harry Dimitriadis, the COVID-19 outbreak “Right now we’re just playing it by ear.” has changed everything. Dimitriadis said he met with five other bar and restaurant owners along On Thursday, the Flames season came to an indefinite halt when the 17th Avenue on Thursday to discuss the impact the coronavirus outbreak NHL announced it would suspend games amid the coronavirus outbreak, could have. deemed a pandemic by the World Health Organization. “Nobody knows what’s going to happen,” he said. The National Basketball Association, Major League Soccer and National Lacrosse League, among many other major sports leagues, have also “Coronavirus is affecting everybody — the guys that are working at the shut down temporarily. stadiums, they’re out of work. They don’t know what’s going to happen, where their next paycheque is going to come from. So there’s an impact “It’s going to have a massive impact,” said Dimitriadis. “Will they come happening throughout society.” back? We don’t know.” CSEC President and CEO John Bean said yesterday there's "a number He said the bar is one of many along 17th Avenue that had been of HR issues" to sort out on that issue. expecting a huge influx of foot traffic over the next few months to watch playoff games featuring the Flames, , and even the While some NHL teams reportedly have plans in place to ensure part- Edmonton Oilers. time employees are compensated in the weeks ahead, Bean was non- committal when asked about the issue on Thursday. STORY CONTINUES BELOW “We’ve already communicated to our staff in terms of what’s happening This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. in the next four days and then we’ve got to work on a number of answers to some of those questions,” he said. On Friday, he said the pub already had three cancellations featuring parties of 20 people or more, and predicted St. Patrick’s Day next A Flames spokesperson added Friday that “once a plan is in place, we Tuesday would be “our worst ever.” will communicate directly with employees.”

“It kind of is what it is,” said Dimitriadis. “I mean, I guess there’s bigger Calgary Herald: LOADED: 03.14.2020 problems.”

Keep your tickets for now

Alberta’s chief medical officer of health announced an indefinite ban on public gatherings of 250 people or more within the province on Thursday.

Dr. Deena Hinshaw said the “aggressive new measures” prohibit major sporting events and concerts in the province.

As the Flames await word from the NHL on how long the team could be sitting idle, fans who’d planned on attending games that are now in question are urged to hold onto their tickets for the time being.

Ticketmaster, used by many professional sports teams including the Flames for retail sales, said it’s working with all event organizers to assess rescheduling options.

“If your event has been postponed, hold on to your tickets,” Ticketmaster said in a statement.

“As we get more information, we will continually provide updates. If your event is rescheduled, you will automatically receive a notice and your tickets will be honoured.”

It’s unclear how long the coronavirus outbreak will impact the Flames schedule. The NBA, which hit pause after multiple players tested positive for COVID-19, has said games won’t resume for at least one month.

Flames GM Brad Treliving said Thursday he didn’t know what the NHL season and playoff format could look like — including potential cancellations — if and when the season resumes.

The Flames said they would be providing further clarity for fans shortly.

“There’s a whole litany of questions that we’re currently working on,” President and CEO John Bean said. “We’re going to develop a ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ and we’re going to post that on our website.” 1180800 Calgary Flames League’s Hitmen, League’s Stampeders and National Lacrosse League’s Roughnecks.

In his final months, King played a crucial role in landing a deal for a Ken King remembered for firm handshake, determination to seal arena downtown arena/event centre. deal He was so passionate about the need for a new venue that he might have built it himself. And he was apparently handy with a hammer — during the NHL lockout that wiped out the 2004-05 campaign, King and Wes Gilbertson Sutter spent countless hours raising a cabin and barn on a quarter of land south of the city. Published:March 13, 2020 “That, to me, was more important than the spotlight part — just being Updated:March 13, 2020 5:31 PM MDT friends and doing stuff together,” Sutter said. “The business side of it, Ken was instrumental in turning that team around. He had the total trust and faith of the ownership. When we had to talk to agents about big Craig Conroy’s mind was made up — he was going to say goodbye to contracts, he was right with you all the time. He always had good advice, the Calgary Flames and accept a job as head coach at Clarkson and he was a strong guy. I think the players listened to him. Their University. representatives listened to him. The owners were always really interested in what he had to say. So he was a strong guy. All that was left was to explain the decision to Ken King. “And he could mix with anybody. He was small-town guy who could work “I’d told Jay Feaster prior, I hugged the girls in the office and then I was with big people and big populations. You could have lost the game last going to talk to Ken. I was done,” recalled Conroy, who had retired a few night and in the morning, I’d have to go with him to a breakfast months earlier and capped the 2010-11 season with an intro-to-the-front- somewhere, and he’d get up and speak. I always used to tell him, he office as a special assistant to the general manager. “When I got to Ken’s could have been the mayor, the premier, whatever he wanted … office, Murray Edwards was on the phone also, and I said, ‘Hey, I want to thank you for everything that you’ve done for me. I really appreciate “He had that connection with people.” everything. I’m going to coach … ’ King, most recently vice-chair for CSEC, is survived by his wife Marilyn, “And Ken said, ‘Oh really? Hang on, let me just ask you a couple daughters Amanda and Jocelin and four grandchildren. questions.’ He said, ‘What’s your one goal?’ I said, ‘Just to win a Stanley Cup,’ and he said, ‘Well, you’re not doing that at Clarkson.’ I was like, He will, of course, be remembered by the staff at the Saddledome — and ‘Yeah, good point.’ eventually at their new home digs.

“I think they offered me a contract right out of that meeting, and that was “He loved the Flames and he loved being at the rink — that’s why he it. One minute, you’re leaving, and the next minute, you’re staying. And worked right up until the end,” Conroy said. “His goal for Calgary Sports nine years later, I’m still here.” & Entertainment was always bigger and better. He wanted Calgary to not just be Cowtown and the Stampede. He wanted to be an international Conroy and the rest of the staff at the Saddledome are now mourning the place to go, and he wanted to do that through sports. loss of King, who passed away earlier this week after a quiet battle with cancer. “I remember in 2002, he told us, ‘My goal is to have a new arena for you guys.’ I’m thinking, ‘It’s Save the Flames time, how’s he going to get a He was 68. new arena?’ But that was his goal. I’d joke around with him and say, ‘Ken, you’re a little off with your date,’ but he got it done. King, the longtime president and CEO of Calgary Sports & Entertainment Corporation (CSEC), not only convinced Conroy to stay. “That’s his real legacy, for me, is going to be that new building. It’s just disappointing that he won’t get to see it. Because without him, it wouldn’t Many years earlier, he’d convinced to come home to be there.” , one of the most significant hires in Flames’ history. Calgary Sun: LOADED: 03.14.2020 “It wasn’t a great time for the franchise when I got there — they were playing in front of 10,000 or 12,000 people and the team wasn’t making the playoffs — and we promised each other that we would put a good product out there and he’d fill the place, and he did,” said Sutter, who coached the locals to within one win — or maybe one pixel — of a Stanley Cup celebration in 2004. “One of his things was if there were 15,000 people in the building, he believed that 41 times a year, he had to shake 15,000 hands. He felt strongly about that.”

If King shook your hand, you likely weren’t going to forget it.

“It was a fist bump at the end, because the way things had gone (with his health), but that handshake … ” said Conroy, now an assistant general manager for the Flames. “The first time that I met him, it caught me totally off-guard. He gives you the big pull and you’re like, ‘Whoa, I better fight back here a little bit or he’s going to break my hand.’ That handshake was legendary, for sure. For so many years, that was his signature.”

“He meant it, too,” Sutter added. “He looked you in the eye and he meant it when he shook your hand. It was sincere.”

In a Twitter post Friday, Flames captain Mark Giordano — like the rest of the NHL, currently playing the waiting game after the action was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic — also remembered King’s firm grip.

“Ken King you will be missed,” Giordano wrote. “You taught me so much about leadership, community and your will to win. Deepest condolences to the King family. You still own the hardest handshake ever. Gonna miss you. RIP.”

The Calgary Tower was lit up Friday in Flames colours in tribute to King, who was publisher for both the Calgary Sun and Calgary Herald before joining CSEC — also the parent company for the Western Hockey 1180801 Calgary Flames “Interesting,” he replied. “We talk a lot internally about adversity building up some skin. And we’ve got enough skin now. We’re good on the skin part. We were talking today that there’s been some challenges, no doubt. I think it’s hardened our group. Flames face uncertainty as they deal with NHL stoppage, Ken King’s death “But this (pandemic) is just different. This is different. It goes beyond hockey. You go through your trials and tribulations as a team or as individuals through the course of a season. This is different. This is bigger than our sport, our game … and there are so many people By Scott Cruickshank Mar 13, 2020 affected by it.

“So you’re just worried about, ‘Let’s make sure everybody’s OK. Let’s The season hadn’t started — in fact, no one had even gathered for camp take the proper steps.’ To me, this is different than some of the stuff — when the Calgary Flames absorbed their first shot. we’ve gone through throughout the year.”

Their finest prospect had wrecked his knee in a training mishap. Juuso The rundown: Valimaki’s injury would require surgery and likely cost him his entire The ‘pause’ rookie campaign. The NHL, of course, is not alone. Other leagues shutting down include Seasons don’t begin on a much worse note than that. the AHL, WHL, NBA, MLB, MLS, NLL, NCAA. Then, in mid-November, T.J. Brodie collapsed during practice. The “It moved fast,” Treliving said of the precautions. “We’re probably no veteran, with no one near him, toppled, then went into convulsions. On- different than you.” site medical staff tended to Brodie until the ambulance arrived. Hours after the frightening scene — which had team staffers and media He noted the NBA’s dramatic turn on Wednesday evening — Rudy members shrieking from the stands — Brodie was declared fine. Gobert’s positive test, a game’s postponement, a league’s quick action.

Two weeks later, charges of racism were levelled at head coach Bill “We all saw the situation … things really sped up,” Treliving said. “But Peters by one of his former players, Akim Aliu. The corroborated over the course of the last week or 10 days, we had made some allegations opened the door for more finger-pointing — this time, contingency plans … hoping that you don’t get to the day that we got to instances of physical abuse by Peters during his time with the Carolina today. But, really, with what’s transpiring, with what’s going on, I don’t Hurricanes. While the hockey world gawked, he and the Flames parted think there was any other decision that could be made. ways. “Obviously, it’s a decision that we support 100 percent.” Before Christmas, the Flames revealed that assistant general manager Chris Snow had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis The testing (ALS). And while Snow’s story is remarkably positive, it stood as another No Flames players or staffers have been swabbed, according to wallop in a star-crossed winter. Treliving. Nor are there plans to test anyone now. Chris Snow, Flames assistant GM, walks to his neighbourhood outdoor “Unless you have symptoms or you’ve travelled from an infected area or rink with his wife Kelsie and their two kids Willa, 5, and Cohen, 8. (Leah you’ve been in a high-risk situation,” he explained. “Those of you that Hennel/For The Athletic) follow us know we’ve dealt with the regular flu bug throughout the year, On Thursday afternoon at the Saddledome, general manager Brad but, at this time, we’ve had nobody tested or confirmed with the virus.” Treliving was once again thrust into the role of bearer of you-know-what. The morning This time to tell the hastily assembled reporters what he could about the After a conference call with the NHL’s board of governors, Treliving NHL’s suspended season amid the swirling fallout of the coronavirus began to inform players of the league’s indefinite stoppage. pandemic. Since it was officially the day of a game — the New York Islanders were But first? John Bean, CEO and president of the Calgary Sports and in town — a few had already made their way to the Saddledome for the Entertainment Corporation, sitting to Treliving’s right, needed to make an morning skate. announcement. Treliving told those players — and the hockey staff, including coaches, In yet another franchise-rocking development, Ken King, the long-time on the premises — to go home. He contacted the rest of the guys and president of the Flames, had died. ordered them to stay put. King, who joined the team in 2001 after 30 years in the newspaper Everyone was asked to await further direction. No one required an business, had been battling cancer. He was 68. explanation. “He was a very unique individual, with an incredible sense of what was “Around the dressing room, we’re not immune to things that are going on right and what was wrong,” Bean said. “He taught many of us so many in society. It was a talking point for the last few days of potentially what lessons in all aspects of business and life. could happen,” Treliving said. “So lots of questions (from the players). “We all miss him very much and there will be a more appropriate time Very understanding. All believe … that this is the correct move. So not a and place to properly celebrate him.” lot of shock. Certainly questions about what next.”

But, given the COVID-19’s reach and ongoing devastation and potential The future for more, the Flames weren’t about to play the victim card. No one’s lot That’s a stumper. these days is brimming with sunshine. “We’ve stopped today,” Treliving said. “We don’t know what tomorrow It was hard not to notice the strained faces at the podium — surrounded looks like or when we might be back or how the regular-season finishes by keep-your-distance reminders of white tape — at the front of the Ed or doesn’t finish or any of that.” Whalen Media Lounge. However, he was hopeful that in the next 24 hours he would receive King’s death, now stacked on top of everything else. guidance from the league. “A little numb today, right?” said Bean, who certainly looked it. “There are As of now, teams aren’t practising — or even gathering. so many moving parts going on here right now. We’re going to get through it and then we’re going to move forward. “Obviously, we’re going to be down for a bit,” Treliving said. “So what else can we do, in terms of players training, players skating? Those are “But, yeah, it’s a big body blow to our organization.” sort of the immediate questions that they have, we have, everybody has.” Treliving was asked to describe his club’s season so far — the repeated emotional hurdles, which had little to do with wins or losses, goals or assists. However, he would prefer the team to be in charge of any workouts, on the ice or off. “I think any time we can control the environment, it’s better. The less traffic, the better. But we’ll see.”

For not the first time during the press conference, the Flames boss noted that there are more questions at this point than answers.

“It’s really, ‘Stay tuned.'”

The dollars

In one fell swoop, Bean was asked about refunds for season-ticket holders and the impact on the organization’s payroll (250 full-time, 1,500 part-time).

“A couple of really good questions,” he replied, “and there’s probably 25 more that need to be added.”

Already boosters and staff had been informed of the basics — no Flames game on Thursday, no Roughnecks game on Friday, no Flames game on Saturday, no Hitmen game on Sunday.

Which, for game-day workers such as ushers, security guards, custodians, servers, stands as a pay-packet hit.

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban is ready to take care of his staffers, who suddenly were without shifts at the American Airlines Center.

“For the next four Mavs games we have a program where — the next four would-have-been Mavs games — we’ll pay our employees, our hourly employees, as if they worked,” Cuban told ESPN’s “Get Up show.”

The Flames are still sorting out what will happen at the Saddledome.

“There’s a number of HR issues that we’ll be dealing with,” Bean said. “We’ve got to work on a number of answers to some of those questions.”

As far as ticket refunds, Bean says a Frequently Asked Questions segment is being put together. That will soon be posted on their website.

“Our staff is diligently working on that as we speak.”

The rest

On the Flames’ other hockey fronts — the AHL Heat in Stockton, the WHL Hitmen down the hall — there is no difference.

“Same holding pattern,” Treliving said. So Heat and Hitmen players are remaining in Stockton, Calif., and Calgary, respectively, but will not be practising.

The juniors, however, will continue to attend school “to the extent that school is still being allowed,” Bean said.

The hockey dad

Not only is Bean at the top of the CSEC corporate ladder, his son Jake, a Carolina prospect, skates for AHL Charlotte.

“I’m like any parent — I’m obviously concerned for my kids,” he said. “Jake and I were talking last night as a matter of fact, and finding out what did he know, what did I know. What I know and what I can tell my son is sometimes different, right?”

He pointed out that Jake is not coming home any time soon and neither is his daughter Alexandra, who works in New York.

“I think we all kind of take a deep breath here and understand what we’re all facing … the health and safety of all of us,” Bean said. “I’m talking about all citizens, well beyond the sport of hockey.

“You’ve got to look after your family and everyone has to look after each other.”

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180802 Carolina Hurricanes

Hurricanes making contingency plans for resumption of season

BY CHIP ALEXANDER

MARCH 13, 2020 12:37 PM

The Carolina Hurricanes and the NHL are on hold, the 2019-20 season suspended and the future uncertain because of the coronavirus pandemic.

But contingency plans are being made for a possible resumption of the season, Hurricanes president and general manager told the Centennial Authority on Friday during a board meeting at PNC Arena.

Waddell said the league has asked for tentative playing dates at PNC Arena through the end of July.

“There’s no time frame because no one knows how big (a crisis) this is going to be,” Waddell told the authority, the arena landlord. “The are the most important thing to the league and (the NHL) has asked internally for the dates. The hope is to come back and play some regular-season games, then the postseason.”

That’s the hope. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, in announcing the season postponement on Thursday, referred to it as a pause or hiatus, although no one can say for now when or if the season will resume.

“I think we’re doing the right thing as a league,” Waddell said in an interview. “We’ve got to get this thing under control. Have we seen the height of it yet? Probably not. So let’s do the proper things and keep people as safe as we can.”

The Hurricanes, who had won three straight games and were in a wild- card playoff position, were in New Jersey on Thursday for a game against the Devils. The team flew back to Raleigh after the announcement was made by Bettman.

The Canes’ last game was against the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday in Detroit. The team shared the same Detroit hotel, the Westin Book Cadillac, that had been used by the Utah Jazz, which had a Saturday game against the . The Jazz have had two players --- Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell -- test positive for the coronavirus.

Waddell said none of the Canes players or staff members have taken the coronavirus test or been symptomatic.

“You can’t test unless there are symptoms,” Waddell said. “No one in the traveling party had symptoms. There were some issues with a couple of people having the hotel rooms (at the Westin) but there were no symptoms.”

John Forslund, the Canes’ longtime television play-by-play man, told the N&O on Friday that he was in the same hotel room used by Gobert in Detroit and was in self-quarantine at his home in Apex.

The authority again met in closed session Friday to be updated on the lease negotiations with Gale Force Sports & Entertainment, the Canes’ parent company.

Before the closed session, arena manager Dave Olsen told the authority all scheduled events would be postponed after the Millennium Tour 2020 event Friday. Olsen said the Billie Eilish Show on Thursday had a crowd of 14,000.

Olsen said promoters whose shows are being postponed are being open to booking future dates. Refunds will be made, Olsen said.

Gov. Roy Cooper said Thursday that he was recommending the cancellation or postponement of all gatherings with 100 or more people to help combat the spread of the disease.

“Everyone is cooperating, everyone understands the crisis internationally,” Olsen said. “We’ll just keep moving forward a day at a time. We are trying to adhere to all the requests from the Governor. Once we get through (Friday) night we’re shutting ‘er down.”

News Observer LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180803 Carolina Hurricanes But Forslund is also not sure what he’s going to do for the next 10 days. “It’s different. It’s a long time,” Forslund said. “Today it doesn’t seem like

much. As the days march on here, you’re just hoping nothing happens. John Forslund one of two Hurricanes staffers possibly exposed to That’s different. Every time I sneeze or I cough, you wonder, ‘Where’s coronavirus this going?’

“I’ll go as day by day as I can. I can’t do much. There’s nothing professionally for me to stay connected with. I’m not a big TV guy. In the BY LUKE DECOCK season, I honestly just watch hockey and pay attention to the news. That’s all I do. I’m not a binge-watcher. Not a big movie guy. I don’t want MARCH 13, 2020 11:47 AM to think about what to do because there isn’t much to do.”

News Observer LOADED: 03.14.2020 Note: The News & Observer and McClatchy news sites have lifted the paywall on this developing story, providing critical information to readers. To support vital reporting such as this, please consider a digital subscription.

This story was updated with the name of the other staffer affected at 11:53 a.m.

There are times when an international news story hits so close to home that one sentence can almost make your head spin, and the next sentence is one of them.

Carolina Hurricanes broadcaster John Forslund is self-quarantined in his basement in Apex after staying in the same Detroit hotel room as Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert, the first NBA player to test positive for the novel coronavirus.

All politics really is local.

“It’s serious,” Forslund said Friday morning. “We’ve got to listen to what we’re supposed to do. And act accordingly. You know me. I can be as sarcastic as anybody. Initially, we were all kind of in the same boat. And now look where we are. It’s a serious thing. You just hope and pray everybody’s going to be OK. What I’m going through is no big deal, because there are people who are going to have complications.”

Forslund isn’t the only one. Team videographer Zack Brame, who stayed in one of three rooms the CDC identified for possible exposure after the Jazz moved out of the Detroit Westin Book Cadillac on Saturday and the Hurricanes moved in on Sunday. (The third room was not occupied by the team.)

“Before we even let them on our plane, we checked with our medical people,” Hurricanes president Don Waddell said Friday. “There’s such a low possibility it could be transmitted through the hotel room, but the recommendation from our medical team was that they should fly back with us and then self-quarantine for two weeks.”

In a whirlwind 48 hours for the sports world, Forslund now finds himself at the epicenter of it.

Forslund was sitting on one of the team buses just after 2 p.m. Thursday as the Hurricanes prepared to come home from New Jersey after the suspension of the NHL season when Hurricanes vice president Mike Sundheim, who manages the team’s travel, came aboard and asked the other passenger to exit. Sundheim told him that the Jazz had stayed at the hotel before their game against the Detroit Pistons on Saturday night, and the Hurricanes checked in about 8 p.m. Sunday.

After Gobert tested positive for the COVID-19 disease Wednesday night, the hotel told Sundheim that Forslund and Brame had potentially been exposed as well. The two were isolated at the front of the team plane on the flight home from Newark on Thursday — “That felt like a cross- country flight,” Forslund said — and briefed by team physician Josh Bloom on what comes next.

Upon arriving home, Forslund moved into the basement of his home for the next 10 days, where he will wait to see if he develops symptoms — but only then would he be tested.

“I can’t get tested, that’s the thing,” Forslund said. “I’m like everybody else. That’s the problem right now, as a country.”

So Forslund’s wife Natalie is leaving his meals at the basement door. One of his daughters is staying with neighbors. Another is still at Clemson, where she’s a graduate student and has teaching responsibilities. His son is on his way home from college in Pennsylvania after all of his classes were moved online. He’s fortunate to have able family to support him and space to quarantine. 1180804 Carolina Hurricanes “I don’t have symptoms, so that’s good — and I am not alone in this,” Forslund said. “To a lot of people, my day is normal. I have a set routine, and it didn’t change. I just figured once the NHL settled it, (we) would have to follow suit.” ‘Now I’m just scared’: Members of the Hurricanes detail quarantine When was it over?

Sundheim: “We talked about it this morning at breakfast. My impressions By Sara Civian Mar 13, 2020 from a lot of the guys seemed to match my own feelings — we’re pretty much ready to get home to our loved ones.”

Digital content producer Zack Brame: “I kinda had a feeling; I was a little Editor’s note: The original headline and story incorrectly stated that staff nervous about getting it. I obviously took precautions from our awesome members of the Hurricanes were tested for COVID-19. We apologize for medical staff.” the error. To clarify, Brame also slept in the room of someone who tested positive. This is weird. Along with Gobert, Donovan Mitchell, tested positive for the COVID-19. Do you hold off on this story? Do you tell this story in a column? Do you Brame: “I was told, ‘Hey, you slept in a room where someone on an NBA force those involved to respond? team might have (the coronavirus).’ Nobody knows. “I’m trying (not to freak out). I went from not worrying at all to being Sometimes things are better left ignored, but sometimes folks deserve to scared to being what I am right now. Now I’m just scared — like, no one’s know what’s going on with the athletes when their favorite league pauses ever lived through something like this before. And, I mean, yeah, I’m not for the season. gonna bullshit. I got that sinking feeling where your ears ring and your vision gets kind of blurry — I could not believe that (hearing he was at As the hours wane in what feels like some post-apocalyptic movie, as I risk) after everything I did. The scariest thing is just sitting here and feel like I’m winning the silent competition of “Who has the cleanest waiting to see if I have it or not.” hands in America,” I can’t stop oscillating between morbid humor and outright panic about the global pandemic that has rightfully paused our So, what’s next? nation. Tom Dundon, team owner: “I think it’s gonna take longer to sort this out. What was once a must-win tear throughout the — And this isn’t the NHL’s position, this is me looking at life. Two to three one the Hurricanes lived up to — turned into an unprecedented paused weeks is probably not realistic.” season. So we probably won’t arrive at a solution in three weeks. The season is postponed. The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 But when did that happen? Why did that happen? How did those who rely on the season happening react?

Let’s start with the why: The coronavirus was a growing issue, but when did it become impossible to ignore?

When did you realize this was sort of a big deal?

Mike Sundheim, vice president of Hurricanes communications and team services: “I think just reading some of the stories and accounts from Italy, we could start understanding just how serious this could get for people here. So it felt important that we take some responsibility in how we could personally play a role in the spread, given our travel and the crowds at the games. At the start of our trip, our doctors suggested that we tell the guys to avoid signing autographs or having contact with fans, so I think that was a wake-up call for just how seriously the medical community was taking this.”

That was about the time the Hurricanes were traveling from Long Island to Detroit. I’d already been given my last one-on-one interview — from Jaccob Slavin, about Brett Pesce.

Then, while in Detroit …

Sundheim: “At the end of the day, the moment that turned the whole conversation was the doctor running on the court in Oklahoma City. It didn’t take long after that for us to realize that Rudy Gobert had played a game in Detroit just before our arrival there.”

There’s a popular Detroit hotel athletes tend to stay at. Unfortunately, that coincided with the Utah Jazz’s stay and the Carolina Hurricanes’ check-in less than 24 hours later. The Hurricanes stayed at the same hotel as the Jazz. Play-by-play announcer John Forslund discovered that he stayed in the same room as an infected person had less than 48 hours earlier.

When did folks realize they were at risk, and what happened next?

Forslund: “Mike told me I might’ve stayed in the same room as (Gobert) and because of that we’re gonna make some changes. He said, ‘You’re still gonna fly with us.’ Then I got on the phone with Dr. Josh Bloom, and he said to just be extra aware of things.

“Enough time elapsed between when (Gobert) left and when I got in the room that (Forslund) should be all right,” Sundheim and experts said. “We’re just gonna take the precautions.” 1180805 Chicago Blackhawks Bettman also said it is not the NHL's independent call when to resume play and did not rule out the possibility of games in empty arenas.

Even after the NHL endured a full-season lockout in 2004-05 and another Gary Bettman says NHL players should self-isolate while the season is in 2012-13 that led to a 48-game season, former player Matt Hendricks on hold called this “kind of no-man’s territory.”

“It’s weird because nothing like this has ever happened, and it’ll probably never happen again, hopefully,” retired forward said. “It’s By STEPHEN WHYNO and JOHN WAWROW like, `Is this even real?’ But there’s a big-picture purpose to it. … It’s about making sure we can slow down if not cease, but more likely slow ASSOCIATED PRESS |MAR 13, 2020 | 1:50 PM down how quickly it’s spreading.”

Chicago Tribune LOADED: 03.14.2020 The NHL is telling its players and staff to stay away from the rink and self-isolate while hockey is on a hiatus of unknown length during the coronavirus pandemic.

Commissioner Gary Bettman said Friday he was not aware of any player or league employee testing positive for the new coronavirus, but he can't say for certain that no one is feeling ill or awaiting test results. The league announced Thursday it was putting its season on “pause,” but Bettman remains optimistic of resuming play and eventually awarding the Stanley Cup.

“That would be the goal,” Bettman said in a phone interview with The Associated Press and the NHL’s website. “Health, safety, well-being of the NHL family, especially and including our fans, is most important. If the business considerations and the money were the only thing, then we and a bunch of others would keep playing.”

Bettman told owners the first positive test result by any player would mean “all bets are off” and that the decision to suspend the season came after that happened in the NBA. There are some 700 players among the 31 NHL teams across North America.

“It was clear to me that no matter what scenario we came up with that we continued to play with, either with or without fans, it was inconceivable, certainly unlikely, that we were going to get through the rest of the regular season at minimum without somebody testing positive,” Bettman said.

[The latest] Trump declares national emergency as US struggles to contain coronavirus outbreak; House passes aid package for free tests, sick pay »

Unlike NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who said his league's season would be suspended at least 30 days, Bettman would not put a timeframe on the NHL hiatus. Bettman said several contingencies are being worked but would not give a definitive date on when that would have to happen or how long into the summer things could go. The Stanley Cup is typically awarded in early June after two months of playoff games.

“I think the scope of what this is still unknown to all of us,” prominent players' agent Stephen Bartlett told The AP. “I think the only thing that we can counsel people is to take a deep breath and take whatever steps necessary and prudent to keep yourself healthy. And rest assured, especially for our athlete population, that those guys are in the very best of shape.”

League and Players’ Association officials were meeting Friday to spell out a plan for what can be done while the season is on hold. Bettman isn’t sure how long players will be advised to stay home.

“We'll be looking to progress in terms of activities once we get a handle on whether or not anybody in the short term is going to test positive,” Bettman said.

Players seem to be on board with the NHL’s response. San Jose Sharks forward Evander Kane tweeted the NHL “has done the right thing in taking this pause to help the risk of spreading this virus.”

[The latest] Coronavirus and sports: NFL bans in-person, pre-draft visits starting Saturday, while most other sports leagues shut down »

Boston-based agent Mark Witkin is telling his players to use common sense when training and stay upbeat despite the lack of games and practices.

“I think the NHL is probably smart in not putting any time frame on it because it's all temporary anyways,” Witkin said. “No one knows.” 1180806 Chicago Blackhawks “My parents treated everybody like family,” Larry Deutsch said. “I think it’s why none of us had any interest to move. We love Chicago, but we were never going to leave our family’s side.”

Blackhawks ‘Kiss Cam’ favorite Earl Deutsch, owned Deutsch Luggage, Together, the couple built their business, Deutsch Luggage. At its peak, it dead at 93 had four locations on prime real estate in downtown Chicago and in the suburbs. Their clientele included Mayors Richard J. Daley and Jane M. Byrne, actor-comic Steve Martin and Blackhawks players.

By Maureen O'Donnell Mar 13, 2020, 5:15am CDT Young Earl grew up on the North Side with a sister, Sydell. His parents, Hazel and Joe Deutsch, founded Deutsch Luggage in the days of

steamer trunks. He played football for a youth team called the Junior Whenever the Kiss Cam landed on them at Blackhawks games, Earl and Bears and liked to eat at the old Ashkenaz deli, 1432 W. Morse Ave. RoseLee Deutsch would act like newlyweds. He palled around with another Sullivan High School kid, Sheldon They’d smile and gaze into each other’s eyes. Greenfield, who became a lifelong friend and Las Vegas headliner known as Shecky Greene. As they puckered up, Mr. Deutsch would pump his fist for the camera. Reached in Nevada, Greene still remembers his phone number from the And the crowd would go wild. old neighborhood — RO (Rogers Park) 4-6826. In the golden days before they all went off to fight in World War II, he and Earl roamed After all, it isn’t often they’d see couples on the Kiss Cam who’d been Rogers Park with friends Bubby Wolf, Ziggy Blum, Buddy Perelman and married for 70 years. Bobby Warsaw. Last Sunday, RoseLee, 92, came to the Blackhawks game alone “We were inseparable,“ Greene said. “We actually loved each other. If because Earl, 93, died in January. anybody ever needed anything from that group, you helped each other She wore her husband’s Hawks jersey emblazoned with the number 50 out.” — a gift from the team 20 years ago for the couple’s golden anniversary. They went to movies at the 400, the Adelphi and the Granada theaters. The Hawks had a surprise for her. They paid tribute to the Deutsches — Earl “was very quiet, a little guy, but in all sports ... they would pick Earl,” season ticket-holders for more than 60 years — by featuring a montage Greene said. “He was very nice, Earl. He was a good kid.” of five years of their smooches on the Jumbotron. RoseLee Ross met Earl after he returned from World War II, having RoseLee Deutsch, wearing her late husband Earl’s Blackhawks jersey at served as a radio man in Okinawa, Iceland and the Philippines. With his a Hawks game March 8, was accompanied by some of her grandchildren leonine locks, his mom would call him “the prettiest boy in Rogers Park.” and their significant others. They began dating while attending the University of Illinois. “It was instant RoseLee Deutsch, wearing her late husband Earl’s Blackhawks jersey at attraction,” Mrs. Deutsch said. a Hawks game March 8, was accompanied by some of her grandchildren and their significant others. Provided She remembers the day he proposed. “We would park in the car in the garage and sit and talk. Not illicitly. Just like young people do. At one The United Center crowd watched as, game after game, the radiant point, he reached in his pocket and took out a little box and gave it to me couple turned to each other for a peck. and put it on me. It was my ring, and I treasured it. Loved it. Loved him.” “When they would come to us, we’d kiss,” Mrs. Deutsch said afterward. They got married at the InterContinental Hotel and raised their family in “We knew how.” Rogers Park and Skokie. The tribute drew a standing ovation and more than a few tears. Through it all, they went to Blackhawks games. The Deutsches — in their regular seats about 14 rows behind the “We had date nights every night when we walked out the door,” Mrs. Blackhawks bench — became the traditional grand finale on the Kiss Deutsch said. “We were a pretty good couple, honey.” Cam. People would applaud and shout their approval and, yes, the occasional, “Get a room!” Redheaded Keith Magnuson was a favorite player. An amateur artist, Mrs. Deutsch said she painted a picture of a dejected Magnuson that she Sometimes, when they were out at a restaurant or elsewhere, fans would copied from a photo after the Hawks lost the 1971 Stanley Cup to the recognize them. Some asked: What’s your advice for having a long and . happy marriage? “I took it by the stadium while they were still practicing, and I showed it “Just listening, looking, feeling, loving,” Mrs. Deutsch would say. “That’s to him and gave him a copy,” she said. The picture appeared in it.” Magnuson’s book “None Against,” according to Blackhawks historian Bob She can’t remember them ever getting irritated with each other. “There Verdi, who did an online tribute to the Deutsches. were times when we didn’t agree on something, but it wasn’t an unhappy The Deutsches sold prints of the painting at their luggage shops. disagreement. It was just yes or no.” Over the years, they had stores on Van Buren and Oak streets and in “Dad would joke the biggest mistake he ever made was when he took Skokie and Oak Brook. Mr. Deutsch knew how to close a sale. He also her out to a hockey game, and she loved it,” their son Larry said. had an eye for new products, like when rolling luggage came out, They became season ticket-holders in the 1960s, when the games were Howard Deutsch said. Mrs. Deutsch became a personal shopper and at the old , and remained so through the Hawks winning consummate gift wrapper for many customers, who trusted her to find four Stanley Cups. one-of-a-kind gifts.

“We just wanted to do something together,” Mrs. Deutsch said of going to “They would divide and conquer,” Larry Deutsch said. “They would drive the games. in from Skokie, drop her off at Oak Street. He’d go to Van Buren. Howie would go to Oak Brook. Dad might go to Skokie, and a cousin would run They befriended the fans who sat near them. They got to know the the Van Buren store.” players’ wives. They enjoyed dining at Myron & Phil’s in Lincolnwood and Jack’s “It just grew to be almost like a family,” Mrs. Deutsch said. restaurant on Touhy Avenue just west of the Edens Expressway. Mr. The couple had four sons: Dr. Stephen Deutsch, Howard Deutsch, Larry Deutsch liked giving give Dove bars to his grandchildren. And he loved to Deutsch and Barry Deutsch, as well as 12 grandchildren and five great- wear spiffy socks — the more brightly colored and patterned, the better, grandchildren. A number of them accompanied Mrs. Deutsch at the Stephen Deutsch said. game last weekend. Each winter, Mr. Deutsch and his four boys would head to Boca Raton to play golf and reconnect. Services have been been held.

“They were inseparable,” Barry Deutsch said. “They were always holding hands.”

“Mom was holding Dad’s hands at the end and would not let go,” Larry Deutsch said. For an hour after he died, “She would not let go.”

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NHL, NHLPA sign off on quarantine guidelines amid COVID-19 outbreak

By Charlie Roumeliotis March 13, 2020 7:15 PM

One day after shutting down due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the NHL on Friday sent a memo to all of its players advising them to self-quarantine in their own homes, reports TSN's Pierre LeBrun. That means no skating and no working out in a public gym.

The NHL and NHLPA signed off on the memo around 4 p.m. Here's a recap of the additional guidelines:

— Players, for now, have been asked to self-quartantine in their home NHL cities. For players who want to self-quarantine away from their NHL home city because their immediate family lives elsewhere — most notably players who were traded ahead of the Feb. 24 deadline, such as former Blackhawks Erik Gustafsson and Robin Lehner, whose families still live in Chicago — they are allowed to do so as long as their current team is made aware of it.

— Despite rinks and practice facilities being closed, players on injured reserve can still get treatment at team facilities.

— Any player who develops COVID-19 symptoms should contact their respective club's head trainer, "who will consult with the Club's infectious disease specialist to determine next steps." The memo also asks to inform the team's medical staff if they've come in contact with an infected person.

— The hope is for players to be allowed to have small group skates at some point, perhaps as soon as the next seven-to-10 days before a mini "training camp period" to prepare for the remainder of the season. Again, optimistically speaking.

— And finally, Sportsnet's Chris Johnston reports NHL players have been assured they'll continue to get paid during the hiatus. Their final final three paychecks will be received on Friday, March 30 and April 15.

It remains unclear if and when the NHL will resume play, but commissioner Gary Bettman is on record saying: "Our goal is to resume play as soon as it is appropriate and prudent, so that we will be able to complete the season and award the Stanley Cup."

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The NHL will continue to pay the players amid season suspension

By NBC Sports Chicago March 13, 2020 4:56 PM

On Friday, the NHL announced updates as to the state of the league in the wake of the season suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The NHL will continue to pay all of the players and they will also require that all players stay within the city where they are normally playing.

The NHL will continue to pay the players. Players needs to stay in the city where they are normally playing. Players on IR will be able to resume their rehab in the next few days. The others needs to stay home for now.

— Renaud Lavoie (@renlavoietva) March 13, 2020

Injured Reserve players will be able to continue their routines but at the recommendation of the league, everyone else will need to stay at home for the time being.

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Blackhawks' practice and community rink, Fifth Third Arena, closing for at least 2 weeks

By Scott King March 13, 2020 3:44 PM

On Friday, the Blackhawks' practice facility and community ice rink, Fifth Third Arena, announced it would be closing the building after the day's scheduled events are concluded for "a minimum two-week period."

The measure was taken due to concerns with the spreading of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Fifth Third Arena will be closed to the public starting tomorrow, March 14 for a minimum two-week period.

Full statement below: pic.twitter.com/FwZ9hyb4Eq

— Fifth Third Arena (@fifththirdarena) March 13, 2020

Andrea M. Hahn, the arena's general manager, said the hope is to reopen the doors on Monday, March 30th but that could change. She also wanted to make it clear that no known case of coronavirus involving the rink has been reported.

On Thursday, the NHL announced it was pausing the season due to concerns with COVID-19.

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Where things stand with Blackhawks as NHL puts hockey on hold amid COVID-19 pandemic

By Charlie Roumeliotis March 13, 2020 12:40 PM

The entire sports world has been put on pause amid COVID-19 concerns, with the NHL following the NBA’s suit on Thursday by suspending its season indefinitely. It started a rapid chain reaction that led to other leagues across the global shutting down immediately.

The hiatus comes at an interesting time for the NHL, which was in the heart of its stretch run leading up to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. There were supposed to be three weeks left in the regular season.

Now, it’s unclear if and when play will resume and what that could look like despite NHL commissioner Gary Bettman saying the goal is to award a Stanley Cup winner this season.

In the grand scheme of things, what happens next in sports is far down on the list of things that matter in society right now even though that’s what we turn to in times like these. But this is an unprecedented situation.

Before the NHL shut down, the Blackhawks routed the San Jose Sharks 6-2 after losing consecutive games in regulation to Detroit and St. Louis. It was a nice bounce-back effort for the Blackhawks in a game that still meant something to them.

"We were pretty excited about this three-game stretch we had here," Patrick Kane said. "San Jose, Ottawa and Washington, and trying to win these games and get ourselves back into it again."

Instead, the Blackhawks are left waiting like all of us on what the next step is. Will the regular season be shortened? What will the playoffs look like? Will the season have to be punted on altogether?

These are questions nobody knows the answer to with the circumstances changing by the hour. So let's take a look at where things stand with the Blackhawks.

If you take a peek at the standings, you'll find the Blackhawks at 72 points through 70 games. They're six points out of the final wildcard spot in the Western Conference and have four teams to jump. It doesn't seem insurmountable on paper, but according to Money Puck, their playoff odds are at 3.4 percent.

On the flip side, the Blackhawks have the ninth-worst points percentage in the league at .514. According to Tankathon, they have better odds of landing the No. 1 overall pick (5.0 percent) than securing a playoff spot at this point. Their chances of hitting the lottery for a second straight year and landing inside the Top 3 is at 16.0 percent.

The Blackhawks are almost certainly going to miss out on the playoffs for a third straight year, whether the season continues in some capacity or not. And it’s not a position the organization thought it would find itself in going into the 2019-20 campaign.

There will be plenty of time to dive into what the Blackhawks could do in the offseason to get back on track and forecast what the future might hold. But right now, hockey has been halted and we don't even know what tomorrow will hold.

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180811 Chicago Blackhawks The Blackhawks have yet to say whether they’ll help support United Center employees. (Matt Marton / USA Today)

With the uncertainty of the NHL season, Mitchell and Barratt probably What we’re hearing about the Blackhawks in the wake of the suspended have time to discuss their options with the Blackhawks. As of now, there NHL season isn’t any indication Barratt or Mitchell want to return to college for their senior seasons.

Dominik Kubalik’s next contract will continue to be one of the By Scott Powers and Mark Lazerus Mar 13, 2020 Blackhawks’ priorities heading into the offseason. Kubalik’s agent traveled from the Czech Republic to Chicago this week to meet with Stan

Bowman. There doesn’t appear to be a deal to announce yet, but the two It was funny on Tuesday, with Connor Murphy — standing behind a sides have now met a few times in recent months. lectern 6 feet away from the assembled reporters at Fifth Third Arena — The Blackhawks have some decisions to make with European players in reminiscing about the 2017 mumps outbreak, when NHL players were the coming months. told not to share towels coming out of the shower, as if that were a thing. Winger prospect Andrei Altybarmakyan, a 2017 third-round pick, is It was surreal on Wednesday, with the Blackhawks playing what seemed interested in signing with the Blackhawks after his KHL contract officially like a normal game in front of 21,000 amped-up fans — players hugging expires, but it’s unclear whether the Blackhawks want to bring him over each other and fans high-fiving each other after goals — while the now. The 21-year-old had six goals and 11 assists in 47 games with country and the sports world were grinding to a halt. Sochi in the KHL this season. It was over on Thursday, with the NHL following the NBA’s lead and Max Shalunov also remains interested in signing with the Blackhawks. suspending the season — pausing it, in their words — to help limit the His KHL season is still ongoing. spread of COVID-19 and “flatten the curve” as the crisis became an pandemic. The Blackhawks also have to decide whether to sign European players Mathias From and Wouter Peeters by June 1. If they’re not signed, they’ll “I guess things are getting pretty real around here,” Patrick Kane said become free agents. The Blackhawks aren’t expected to sign Peeters, a after the Blackhawks’ 6-2 win over the Sharks, having found out about goaltender. It’s unknown about From, a forward. Blackhawks director of the NBA’s decision just moments earlier. player development Mark Eaton recently watched From play in Sweden. “Obviously, it’s a pretty serious situation,” Duncan Keith said. “I’ve got From hasn’t produced at a high level there — 25 points in 49 games in some friends over in Europe that play over in the European leagues and the second division this season — but he has the type of game that may some of those leagues have been canceled. It’s a weird spot to be in.” translate better to the small rink in North America.

One reporter asked Kane if he’d rather not play at all or play in empty It wouldn’t be surprising if the Blackhawks try to add another European buildings, and Kane just laughed, starting to say “What kind of …” before free agent to their roster pool as well. It has worked out well for them in realizing he was touching his face, which everyone has been advised not recent years. to do. They haven’t been connected to him as of now, but Pius Suter is one Keith seemed clearer on the issue. name to watch. Suter, a 23-year-old forward, led the NLA, Switzerland’s top league, with 30 goals and 53 points in 50 games this season. Kubalik “It’s tough to imagine playing games in an empty building,” Keith said. “I led the same league with 25 goals and 57 points in 50 games last mean, the fans are what make the game.” season.

A little more than 12 hours later, the NHL officially paused the season. Suter’s agent shared a little about his NHL interest in an email on Friday. Here’s what we’re hearing in the wake of one of the biggest news days in sports history. “The only thing I can share is that Pius has several options on the table but he will wait after July 1st to sign,” Georges Muller wrote. “He is not in Teams are prohibited from having practices or team meetings during the a hurry and wants to see first where the interested organizations are hiatus, and it’s unclear what players are allowed to do in terms of heading to. Please understand that I can not unveil which clubs are securing ice time and holding informal practices. Jonathan Toews led a interested.” series of practices with more than a dozen players — teammates, prospects and even a few players from other NHL teams — during the There’s no way of knowing if — or when — the NHL season will start up lockout in the fall of 2012. Toews even had to collect 10 or 20 bucks from again. But TSN’s Frank Seravalli reported that teams have been asked to each player to reserve the ice at Johnny’s IceHouse West. Back then, it provide arena availability information into July. For comparison’s sake, started as a three-days-a-week thing, but when it became apparent that the 2013 Stanley Cup playoffs didn’t start until April 30 (more than three talks between the owners and players association weren’t going weeks later than this year’s scheduled start) and the Blackhawks won the anywhere, on-ice workouts became more sporadic, and gym workouts Stanley Cup on June 24, the latest it’s ever been won. became the focus. According to a league source, commissioner Gary Bettman told the With this hiatus every bit as uncertain as the last one — the hope is that board of governors during Thursday’s conference call that if the rest of it’ll only be for a few weeks, but Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has the season were canceled, the league and players would lose a recommended that no sporting events be held until May 1 — the players whopping $1 billion in revenue. That would be a massive blow to the still have a lot of questions to be answered. league, so the hope is players can get back to work around April 15, have a one-week, mini training camp to get back into game shape, then In the meantime, though, a handful of Blackhawks were working out in finish out the regular season in May before having a possibly truncated Ian Mack’s South Loop gym mere hours after Thursday’s official practice playoffs that ends in July (perhaps best-of-five series in the first three was canceled. rounds, but then a seven-game Stanley Cup Final). That’s the best-case scenario, though, and might not be very likely. But deciding who gets into The Blackhawks may give it a few days, but they’ll likely soon reach out the playoffs and how to pay players for an incomplete regular season is a to prospects Ian Mitchell and Evan Barratt to discuss their futures. Both logistical nightmare, so the league is very much motivated to squeeze in players were destined for the NCAA tournament with their respective the rest of the season if at all possible. teams (Mitchell with Denver and Barratt with Penn State) and had their seasons cut short with the NCAA’s decision to cancel all winter There are up to 1,487 hourly employees working at the United Center on championships on Thursday. a typical Blackhawks game night, including parking, ticketing, concessions, housekeeping and customer service. They’re the ones who It was assumed the Blackhawks might burn the first season of their entry- will be most affected by the hiatus, just as they were during the lockouts. level contracts if Mitchell and Barratt’s college seasons ended before the Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban said he is putting together a plan to NHL regular season. That may still be a possibility. A player doesn’t have financially support the hourly workers. New Jersey Devils owners are to play in a NHL game to burn a season, but he does need to be on an reportedly committed to paying hourly and event staff for postponed active roster. games and events. Here’s hoping and do the same. If the NHL season — or at least the regular season — were canceled, the Blackhawks would have the ninth-worst points percentage. According to Tankathon, the Blackhawks would have a 16 percent chance at a No. 3 pick and 5 percent at No. 1.

The Blackhawks’ best odds would be to land the No. 9 pick. Looking at an assortment of draft lists, some of the names to start getting familiar with around that range would be forwards Cole Perfetti, Lucas Raymond, Marco Rossi, Anton Lundell, Dylan Holloway, Alexander Holtz, Noel Gunler and Connor Zary, defensemen Jamie Drysdale, Jake Sanderson and Kaiden Guhle and goalie Yaroslav Askarov.

If you’re looking for something to do in the coming weeks or months, you can fool around with Tankathon’s lottery simulator. I did 25 simulations and the Blackhawks landed 10th 10 times, ninth nine times. 11th three times, third once, second once and first once.

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Mavericks, Stars to compensate American Airlines Center staff for suspended home games during NBA hiatus

By Matthew DeFranks

10:36 PM on Mar 13, 2020

Hourly staff members who work Mavericks and Stars games at American Airlines Center will be compensated for wages lost due to the NBA and NHL placing their seasons in hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Mavericks on Friday announced that staff members will be paid for the six home games that were scheduled to occur during the NBA’s 30- day hiatus.

Stars president Brad Alberts said workers will be paid by the Stars and American Airlines Center their usual wages for the seven Stars games that were to be played in March because, “We do not want any of our great people to be negatively impacted financially.”

On Wednesday night, almost immediately after the NBA announced its hiatus following Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert’s positive test for COVID- 19, Mavericks owner Mark Cuban pledged to help arena workers, many of whom, he noted, live paycheck-to-paycheck.

The Mavericks on Friday said they were working with AAC leadership, and with Mavericks jersey sponsor Chime also allocating funds, to compensate hourly workers who include: security, police, parking attendants, housekeeping, in-arena entertainers and guest services staff.

“It is our hope,” the Mavericks’ news release stated, “that this will allow our valued team members to satisfy their economic needs during this unprecedented time.”

The Mavericks also said they are partnering with Chime and working with the franchise’s nonprofit partners to identify other support and service opportunities throughout North Texas.

NBA and NHL postponements left arenas around the country without events, and arena staffers without income they typically rely on.

Players around the sports world also volunteered to donate money to pay arena workers, starting with Cavaliers forward Kevin Love donating $100,000.

In hockey, Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky pledged $100,000 that the rest of his teammates matched. In basketball, Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo and Pistons forward Blake Griffin said they would donate $100,000.

Pelicans forward Zion Williamson wrote in an Instagram post he would help workers. The Red Wings, Devils and Penguins also formed plans to pay arena workers.

March was supposed to be the month with the most home games for the Stars, with 10 of the season’s 41 home games scheduled during the month. The Stars were able to play three of them before the NHL announced their suspension Thursday before the Stars hosted the Panthers.

Dallas Morning News LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180813 Dallas Stars The Stars also announced that all team events were postponed, including Victory Club New Member Event and watch parties.

High school basketball championships Everything fans need to know about ticket refunding involving Dallas- Fans who purchased tickets for the postponed state tournament games area sports amid the coronavirus pandemic will be issued full refunds at point of sale or from the school they purchased their tickets from. Fans who purchased All Tournament tickets will be issued a full refund. By SportsDay Staff Duncanville’s athletic department tweeted how to refund the tickets at the 3:18 PM on Mar 13, 2020 school — the info can be found here.

Before announcing that the tournament was being suspended, the UIL was going to allow normal entry for those with pre-purchased tickets for Questions abound as the constantly evolving public health situation semifinal games Thursday and Friday, but no additional tickets were surrounding the new coronavirus takes hold of the American sports being sold for semifinal games. A limited number of championship game landscape, and everybody -- professional athletes, student-athletes, tickets for the winning teams were going to be sold on-site at the box coaches, training staff, fan bases and those involved in the everyday office immediately following the semifinal games. operation of sporting spectacle -- is impacted in some way. UIL deputy executive director Jamey Harrison told The Dallas Morning What comes next? News’ Greg Riddle that the UIL went with that plan originally because the A common starting point at least for fans, of course, may have to do with is a 22,000-seat arena, and that by allowing limited tickets and refunding. attendance, there was going to be enough room for fans to safely spread out. Harrison said the UIL didn’t consider holding games for the Below is a roundup of the latest ticket refund information involving Dallas- tournament without any fans in attendance. area sports. The UIL did not announce attendance figures for the games that were The Rangers said they will announce refund/exchange policies for played Thursday. But there were huge pockets of empty seats, with postponed or canceled regular-season home games at Globe Life Field some sections entirely vacant, because of the attendance limitations that once the regular-season schedule is set. were in place.

As for exhibition games at Globe Life Field: For fans with tickets to the Nazareth, which played in the first game of the tournament, traveled just March 23 and 24 games at Globe Life Field in their season ticket over 460 miles to San Antonio — and then fans who had not pre- packages, the Rangers will create a credit on the account holder’s purchased tickets were informed that they couldn’t attend the semifinals. season ticket members account, which can be used toward securing Slidell, which played in the other 1A semifinal, had to go more than 320 tickets to a future regular-season game, can be used to pay for potential miles to get to the Alamodome. postseason tickets, or as a payment toward the renewal of a 2021 season package. Games that did not get to be played that feature area teams include:

Doctors look at a lung CT image at a hospital in Xiaogan,China. Semifinals

For fans who purchased tickets online or over the phone for the March 23 Argyle vs. Stafford or 24 games, they will have a credit on their My Rangers Tickets account Houston Yates vs. Oak Cliff Faith Family that can be used toward the purchase of a future game during the 2020 season. For fans who purchased tickets for March 23 or 24 in person at Mansfield Timberview vs. San Antonio Wagner the Texas Rangers ticket office, they can bring those tickets to the box office to exchange for a future date. All seating locations for exchanges Lancaster vs. Fort Bend Hightower for future games are subject to availability. Duncanville vs. San Antonio Brandeis Refunds for the Rangers’ five remaining spring training games at Wylie vs. Dickinson Surprise Stadium (March 13, 15, 16, 19 and 20) will be automatically refunded if tickets were purchased at Surprise Stadium Box Office by Championships phone or through an authorized Tickets.com outlet. For tickets purchased with cash, a refund check will be mailed to customers with an account. If Slidell vs. LaRue LaPoyner you don’t have an account, please fill out the refund request form and Madison vs. San Antonio Cole include your original tickets. Major League Soccer on Thursday suspended all games for 30 days From a letter written by NBA commissioner Adam Silver: effective immediately, with the season having kicked off just last month.

“Tickets already purchased for a postponed game will be honored when MLS said it will communicate plans for the continuation of the season the game is rescheduled. If games are not played or played in empty and the status of league events “at the appropriate time.” arenas, teams will work with fans on a credit for a future game or a refund.” All tickets for postponed games will be honored when they are played later in the season, the league announced. Three FC Dallas games fall Silver elaborated on TNT Thursday evening saying the league would go under the current suspension: road contests at New York City FC (March on a hiatus that would likely last “at least 30 days.” Silver added it is too 14) and Sounders FC (March 21), and a home game against soon to speculate whether games would resume with or without fans in LAFC (April 4). FC Dallas said it will communicate with fans as more arenas. information becomes available.

Thirty days from the first day of the hiatus is April 11. Dallas has a home FC Dallas’ first game following the current 30-day suspension is game scheduled against the Detroit Pistons. scheduled for 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, at Portland Timbers. The In a series of frequently asked questions, the Stars said season-ticket club’s first game back in Frisco following suspension is scheduled for holders and other plan holders will receive credit for all postponed games 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, against Chicago Fire FC. included in their package that will be applied to rescheduled games when More information regarding FC Dallas and COVID-19 can be found here. play resumes. XFL Single-game tickets purchased through TicketMaster will be subject to TicketMaster’s postponement policies, which include a refund if ticket Games remaining for the Renegades in the 2020 season: 5 — 2 home, 3 holders are not able to make a rescheduled date. The Stars said fans away who purchased tickets through resale sites like StubHub, Vivid Seats, Ticketmaster Exchange, etc., should contact that company’s customer The XFL will be suspended for the rest of the 2020 season because of service departments. the spread of the COVID-19, which was declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization on Wednesday. In a league statement, the XFL said it will issue refunds to all ticket holders or credit toward future games.

The Dallas Renegades were scheduled to go on the road and play the D.C. Defenders this Sunday. The team’s first season will end with a 2-3 record. The Renegades went 0-3 at the newly renovated Globe Life Park.

More information regarding the XFL’s suspension can be found here.

Dallas Morning News LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180814 Dallas Stars You could still watch the AHL during the 2004-05 and 2012-13 lockouts, and the level of hockey being played was quite high.

8. Speaking of the AHL team: While the Dallas season will continue if the Stars 20/20: What do we do now? NHL reboots in any fashion, the Texas Stars may be done for the year.

If the AHL comes back and jumps straight into a playoff format, Texas would be on the outside looking in. They currently sit one point out of By Sean Shapiro Mar 13, 2020 fourth place in the Central Division.

The ECHL-affiliated Idaho Steelheads would be postseason-bound if AA- league returns with a straight jump into the postseason. 1. This started like any other 20/20. Those minor-league players are laying low in their respective markets for I made a numbered list 1 through 20. Then I hit enter after each number, the time being. On Thursday, the Stars were focusing on getting the AHL with my left pointer finger on the right-side enter key and my right middle team back to Austin. Which isn’t the easiest thing since they had to finger on the down arrow of my computer. schedule close to 30 commercial flights from Denver to Austin when the After that, I bolded each number, 1 through 20. I write in WordPress on team was originally planning to fly to Arizona. HTML mode, so to me each number looks like this: 2.. 9. The employees in the Stars offices in Frisco and Cedar Park are And that’s when this stopped being a normal 20/20. mostly working from home for the time being. Meetings that would typically be held in person are being done over conference calls, which is 2. It’s the morning of Friday 13th; fitting, if you are into that type of thing. common practice for most industries during this pandemic. The Stars didn’t play a game last night against the Florida Panthers. 10. Right now local hockey and beer leagues are still continuing in DFW, There was no trip to and from the American Airlines Center. I didn’t grab which includes games at the Stars practice rink in Frisco. my typical seat in the press box and check the seating chart to see which scouts and media members were scheduled to attend. No bowl of mini As of now, there are no plans to change that fact, but like everything right pretzels or cup of coffee, either. now, it’s fluid.

And, of course, there wasn’t any hockey after the sports world came to a 11. There aren’t silver linings during a pandemic, but there are some halt in the course of roughly 18 hours between March 11 and 12. The convenient life occurrences that set up well for some of the players. NBA suspended its season on Wednesday night after games were Justin Dowling and his wife, Meg, are expecting their first child any day completed. The NHL followed suit on Thursday afternoon. now, and the Stars would have been on road Monday and Tuesday. 3. Players don’t have any idea how long they’ll be out of work or what this Now, there isn’t any chance of Dowling missing the birth of his first child. means in the long run. 12. On a similar personal note, I’m going to use this time to essentially be When I talked to Jason Dickinson on the phone on Thursday afternoon, a stay-at-home dad for my daughter Evangeline. his opening line was, “I don’t really know how much help I can be.” She’s a toddler and has figured out how to communicate with the Dickinson is the Stars’ NHLPA representative. He and his peers were Home unit by yelling “Hey Google!” It’s terrifying. scheduled to have a call on Friday for a potentially better understanding, 13. On a work note, we are still figuring out the best way to provide but just like the rest of the world, Thursday’s events included refreshing constant Stars coverage for our readers. Twitter and doing his best to find an excuse to not look at his phone. It’s not possible to maintain our standard workload without games, but we “We knew as soon as the rest of the internet did,” Dickinson said. “I’m not are going to be do our best to creatively provide distractions during this really sure how long this is going to be. I don’t know if anyone knows.” time when many of our main distractions — the actual games — have NBA Commissioner Adam Silver diplomatically said the NBA’s break been put on hiatus. would last at least 30 days. The NHL will likely adopt a similar timeline, If you have ideas of things you want to read about, you can email me or as the leagues are closely intertwined in both schedule and geography. send me a message on Twitter. 4. Of course, the biggest question is whether this is just a suspension or It’s like overtime. Let’s get weird. becomes a cancelation. 14. If the NHL regular season is over, Anton Khudobin is the regular- No one wants the latter, but if the suspension reaches a certain length, a season save percentage champion at .930. cancelation becomes inevitable. 15. I’m not sure how this stoppage is going to impact NHL awards and 5. Players aren’t able to go to the rink or use team facilities for the time their voting, but I do know that the Dallas Chapter of the PHWA had being, but there’s a confidence level that the athletes will stay in shape already named our Bill Masterton nominee that was originally supposed and almost treat this like an unexpected offseason. to be announced sometime later this month. You can probably guess How long the players remain in their homes and off the ice is a moving who that nominee is. target, but several players are hopeful that they’ll at least be able to have 16. This stoppage is going to provide lots of time to think. informal skates sooner rather than later. For Stars interim coach Rick Bowness, it’s a chance to take an extended 6. The Stars had 13 games remaining on their regular-season schedule. look at his team. For Stars general manager Jim Nill, it’s a reflective time If or when the league returns, it’s realistic to think it’ll be a truncated or to think about this roster, his staff and what they’ve done so far this completely finished regular season. season. As a global pandemic happens, playoff positioning is far from the first I’m not expecting any changes or comments on this during the thing on people’s minds, but the Stars would be in the playoffs. When the suspension, but when we see certain moves or decisions made in the NHL season came to a halt, they were still third in the Central Division future, some of the genesis might have come from this idle time. despite a recent slump. 17. Former Stars forward and Team Finland general manager Jere If the NHL did reboot by going straight into the playoffs, the Stars would Lehtinen had been in town scouting for the IIHF World Championships match up with the , a team that the Stars won the and was originally planning on staying in Dallas through Saturday. season series against 4-0. The World Championships are in Switzerland, which has canceled its 7. Unlike other stoppages in any of our lifetimes, all of hockey has come domestic league, but the tournament scheduled for May 8 through 24 is to a halt. still on the calendar, for now. During the work stoppages, the minor leagues continued to play. So did Earlier this week Lehtinen shook his head and said, “Honestly, I have no the major junior leagues and NCAA schools. The NHL season was idea,” when I asked him if he felt Worlds would go on. cancelled or delayed by a lockout, but hockey lived on at other levels. 18. This stoppage is going to impact arena workers and hourly employees across the world.

Owners across the sports world are starting to make announcements of plans to compensate those workers. Hopefully that trend continues.

19. After each Stars game, Rick the press box attendant has a bucket of beers waiting for the writers in a bucket on ice at the AAC.

Rick is good people.

20. I don’t know if this 20/20 delivered what I was hoping for, but it was a bit calming for me to use a traditional format to write about something nontraditional.

We’ll do our best to keep you informed and hopefully entertained going forward. For now, go wash your hands.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180815 Detroit Red Wings

Detroit Red Wings, Tigers set up $1 million fund to cover workers' wages

Helene St. James, Detroit Free PressPublished 5:24 p.m. ET March 13, 2020 | Updated 9:58 p.m. ET March 13, 2020

Corrections and clarifications: A previous version of this story incorrectly included concession workers as part of Ilitch companies' $1 million fund to cover wages during the COVID-19 outbreak. Concession workers are employed by Delaware North.

The ushers who normally work Detroit Red Wings home games will have their wages covered for at least a month while the sports world shuts down to combat the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The Ilitch companies news hub posted a release Friday stating the Wings, , , Arena and the have set up a $1 million fund to cover wages for part-time staffers who were scheduled to work games, concerts and other events that have been postponed or canceled because of COVID-19 in the coming month. Some arena staff may be moved into other roles.

"In this time of uncertainty, we are committed to standing with and supporting our dedicated and hardworking colleagues and providing them and their families the reassurance they deserve," the Ilitches' statement reads.

On Thursday, the Detroit Pistons committed to paying part-time and hourly staff during the NBA's hiatus.

"Our sincere hope is that this provides comfort to our colleagues in this difficult time," the statement read. "When events resume, we look forward to our colleagues being safely back to work as normal."

The NHL suspended the 2019-20 season Thursday, one day after the NBA postponed its season. The Wings had four home games scheduled, including what would have been the season finale on April 4.

The fund also covers the Pistons’ eight home games, and six Detroit Tigers spring training games that were canceled at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida.

The fund also extends to LCA and Fox Theatre workers affected by cancellations or postponements of multiple concerts or events, such as the Frozen Four.

Detroit Free Press LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180816 Detroit Red Wings season, I honestly just watch hockey and pay attention to the news. That’s all I do. I’m not a binge-watcher. Not a big movie guy. I don’t want to think about what to do because there isn’t much to do.”

Hurricanes broadcaster self-quarantines after staying in same Detroit Detroit News LOADED: 03.14.2020 room as Jazz player

Luke Decock, News & ObserverPublished 10:29 p.m. ET March 13, 2020 | Updated 11:31 p.m. ET March 13, 2020

Raleigh, N.C. — There are times when an international news story hits so close to home that one sentence can almost make your head spin, and the next sentence is one of them.

Carolina Hurricanes broadcaster John Forslund is self-quarantined in his basement in Apex after staying in the same Detroit hotel room as Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert, the first NBA player to test positive for the novel coronavirus.

All politics really is local.

“It’s serious,” Forslund said Friday morning. “We’ve got to listen to what we’re supposed to do. And act accordingly. You know me. I can be as sarcastic as anybody. Initially, we were all kind of in the same boat. And now look where we are. It’s a serious thing. You just hope and pray everybody’s going to be OK. What I’m going through is no big deal, because there are people who are going to have complications.”

Forslund isn’t the only one. Team videographer Zack Brame, who stayed in one of three rooms the CDC identified for possible exposure after the Jazz moved out of the Detroit Westin Book Cadillac on Saturday and the Hurricanes moved in on Sunday. (The third room was not occupied by the team.)

“Before we even let them on our plane, we checked with our medical people,” Hurricanes president Don Waddell said Friday. “There’s such a low possibility it could be transmitted through the hotel room, but the recommendation from our medical team was that they should fly back with us and then self-quarantine for two weeks.”

In a whirlwind 48 hours for the sports world, Forslund now finds himself at the epicenter of it.

Forslund was sitting on one of the team buses just after 2 p.m. Thursday as the Hurricanes prepared to come home from New Jersey after the suspension of the NHL season when Hurricanes vice president Mike Sundheim, who manages the team’s travel, came aboard and asked the other passenger to exit. Sundheim told him that the Jazz had stayed at the hotel before their game against the Detroit Pistons on Saturday night, and the Hurricanes checked in about 8 p.m. Sunday.

After Gobert tested positive for the COVID-19 disease Wednesday night, the hotel told Sundheim that Forslund and Brame had potentially been exposed as well. The two were isolated at the front of the team plane on the flight home from Newark on Thursday — “That felt like a cross- country flight,” Forslund said — and briefed by team physician Josh Bloom on what comes next.

Upon arriving home, Forslund moved into the basement of his home for the next 10 days, where he will wait to see if he develops symptoms — but only then would he be tested.

“I can’t get tested, that’s the thing,” Forslund said. “I’m like everybody else. That’s the problem right now, as a country.”

So Forslund’s wife Natalie is leaving his meals at the basement door. One of his daughters is staying with neighbors. Another is still at Clemson, where she’s a graduate student and has teaching responsibilities. His son is on his way home from college in Pennsylvania after all of his classes were moved online. He’s fortunate to have able family to support him and space to quarantine.

But Forslund is also not sure what he’s going to do for the next 10 days.

“It’s different. It’s a long time,” Forslund said. “Today it doesn’t seem like much. As the days march on here, you’re just hoping nothing happens. That’s different. Every time I sneeze or I cough, you wonder, ‘Where’s this going?’

“I’ll go as day by day as I can. I can’t do much. There’s nothing professionally for me to stay connected with. I’m not a big TV guy. In the 1180817 Detroit Red Wings

Ilitches set up $1M fund to pay arena, theater workers for next month

Tony Paul, The Detroit NewsPublished 2:35 p.m. ET March 13, 2020 | Updated 4:57 p.m. ET March 13, 2020

Detroit — Part-time workers at , Fox Theatre and will have their wages covered for at least one month in the wake of sweeping concert and sports cancellations this week.

Ilitch Holdings made the announcement Friday in a statement to The Detroit News.

"In this time of uncertainty, we are committed to standing with and supporting our dedicated and hard-working colleagues and providing their families the reassurance they deserve," said Chris Granger, group president for sports and entertainment for Ilitch Holdings.

Granger announced a $1 million fund has been established by the Red Wings, Tigers, 313 Presents, Fox Theatre and Little Caesars Arena in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.

On Thursday, the Pistons, who share LCA with the Red Wings, committed to paying part-time and hourly staff. The Pistons didn't specify a dollar amount.

The NBA and NHL have suspended their seasons, and MLB has delayed its start by at least two weeks.

And concerts have been cancelled in rapid fashion, and that will continue now that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Friday a ban on all public gatherings of more than 250 people.

The fund, the Ilitches said, for now will cover four Red Wings home games, eight Pistons home games, six Tigers spring-training games in Lakeland, Fla., as well as concert and special-event employees. It doesn't cover lost Tigers games at Comerica Park.

Among events cancelled at LCA and Fox Theatre: Little Big Town, WWE's Friday Night Smackdown, the Motor City Blues Festival, Zac Brown Band, March Madness, Nick Cannon Presents: MTV Wild 'N Out, Blake Shelton, Festival of Laughs, Billie Eilish, RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles, The Bachelor Live and the Frozen Four, hockey's Division I championship that was set for LCA in April.

"Our sincere hope is that this provides comfort to our colleagues in this difficult time," Granger said. "When events resumes, we look forward to our colleagues being safely back to work as normal."

Granger said if you were scheduled to work any of the events listed here, you'll be paid. He also said when there are opportunities, arena staff could be moved into other roles.

It's not immediately clear if this covers third-party employees, like several of those who work in food and beverage services at LCA and Comerica Park. Delaware North, which runs food and beverage services at LCA and Comerica Park, hasn't returned multiple messages from The News.

Pistons star Blake Griffin announced Friday he would donate $100,000 to LCA workers, as the Cavaliers' Kevin Love did for his organization a day earlier.

There are the latest initiatives by an arena or sports figures. The Cleveland Cavaliers, owned by Detroit's , announced a similar initiative Friday, and earlier in the week Dalas Mavericks owner and "Shark Tank" star Mark Cuban said he was setting up a program to pay his employees, perhaps in return for volunteer work when possible.

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Detroit pro teams tell fans: Keep your tickets for now

Ted Kulfan, The Detroit NewsPublished 1:41 p.m. ET March 13, 2020 | Updated 5:39 p.m. ET March 13, 2020

Detroit – If you have tickets for Pistons, Red Wings or Tigers games, sit tight.

The NBA, NHL and MLB have suspended their seasons because of the COVID-19 threat, but there have been no actual game cancellations.

So games could eventually be made up.

With that in mind, the leagues have not released any ticket refund scenarios yet. The situation remains fluid for every sport.

►Red Wings: The NHL hopes to get the season started up again at some point, but as of now, everything is in limbo.

“We are diligently working with the NHL on plans for the remainder of the season,” the Wings said in a statement. “We will be sure to share updates as details become available. For now, we encourage you to hold on to your tickets as we will be providing updates regarding rescheduled games in the near future.”

►Pistons: The NBA is going on hiatus for 30 days with the full intention of resuming the season. The Pistons, in coordination with the NBA, on Friday announced their policy for postponed games.

"Tickets already purchased for a postponed game will be honored when the game is rescheduled. If games are not played or played in an empty arena, fans will have the option to receive a credit for a future game or a refund," the Pistons said in a statement.

►Tigers: MLB cancelled spring training games and delayed the start of the regular-season schedule by two weeks.

The Tigers are telling their fans to keep their tickets for now, as the team and MLB continue to evaluate the situation in the days and weeks ahead.

“We are diligently working with Major League Baseball on new plans for the upcoming 2020 season,” the Tigers said in a statement. “For now, please hold on to your tickets, as we will be providing updates regarding the start of the regular season in the near future.”

Detroit News LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180819 Detroit Red Wings teams — including the Pistons, who faced the Jazz a week ago at Little Caesars Arena — into various levels of quarantine.

Once the NBA made its decision late Wednesday to stop play, the NHL Wojo: Sadly, the games had to stop before the healing could begin had no choice but to follow, suspending games for an undetermined time, with the intent of resuming this season. Basketball and hockey teams share stadiums, locker rooms and fans, theoretically making it easier for the virus to find an unwitting host. Bob Wojnowski, The Detroit NewsPublished 11:21 p.m. ET March 12, 2020 | Updated 12:44 p.m. ET March 13, 2020 By midday Thursday, baseball had halted spring training and pushed the start of the season back at least a couple of weeks. The Tigers’

cherished home Opening Day, scheduled for March 30, will be later. Indianapolis — A few fans lingered outside, snapping photos in front of The NFL canceled its annual meetings and pulled scouts and other the brick arena adorned with the Big Ten logos. There was no shouting, personnel off the road. For now, the draft is still slated for April 23 in Las no noise at all. They looked like tourists, posing at some historic marker. Vegas, which at least would keep alive one sports staple, the time- This was the day the cheering died, for now, maybe for a while. It was a honored mock draft debates. The list of stoppages is exhausting to day unlike any other, amid a crisis unlike any other, somber, sobering recount — from all Big Ten competitions through the end of the academic and difficult to fathom. In an extraordinary sequence of events, no sport year, to spring football at Michigan, Ohio State and other schools, to was spared. One after another — the Big Ten basketball tournament Major League Soccer for 30 days. here, all conference tournaments, the NCAA Tournament, the NBA, the But the one that stings deeply is the loss of college basketball’s magical NHL, major league baseball, all college spring activities — shut down March Madness, from Selection Sunday to bracket mania to the Final because of the coronavirus pandemic, leaving emptiness and sadness in Four that was supposed to be in Atlanta. Who knows what the financial places they’re not supposed to be. implications will be, with the NCAA Tournament drawing $1.1 billion Mike Lemcke sits in an empty Greensboro Coliseum. The ACC tourney annually from TV networks. was canceled. What replaces all those time slots? What fills the sudden free time in our This was the moment that sports in America changed, no longer an lives for the next month or so? What happens to the arena workers, escape from the world’s ills, but a symbol of the world’s ills. NCAA restaurant workers and hotel workers whose livelihoods depend on President Mark Emmert delivered the final crusher Thursday, canceling crowds? What happens to the basketball players not talented enough for the NCAA Tournament as expected. By then, there was nothing left to the NBA, whose one shining moment was wiped away? cheer, no real argument against the stoppages, no other options. Fair questions, but right now, not the most important questions, They were the right calls precisely because of what sports produce — unfortunately. That’s what Warren wrestled with, talking to athletic large gatherings of people at a time when gathering too closely heightens directors and school presidents, trying to balance the right thing to do the risk of the virus spreading. In a way, the halt may be helpful, to focus with the popular thing to do. attention and resources on the only battle that matters right now. How “This is one of those situations where a lot of people were telling me, ‘I long will the playing fields be barren? Nobody knows, maybe a couple of don’t know,’ and I get concerned when I hear ‘I don’t know’ a few too weeks or more, and frankly, it’s not the most-pressing issue as disease many times,” Warren said. “If it comes down that I overreacted, or we experts struggle to contain a threat with no boundaries. overreacted, I’m comfortable with that. But as I sit here today, in these The cancellation of the NCAA Tournament was the biggest shame of all, kinds of situations, you can never overreact from a safety standpoint.” because college careers and seasons abruptly ended, while the pros will So the pause button was pushed in a country that loves the play button have another chance. Think about that. There will be no Final Four run and is generally suspicious of the panic button. From a public-health for Michigan State and Tom Izzo, who had a shot at his elusive second standpoint, it was necessary, and you realize it more with each positive national title. There will be no fitting, final salve for the wondrous Cassius test, from NBA stars to Hollywood stars. When Disneyland closes, Tom Winston, eternally ill-fated, his time as a Spartan ended. Hanks is ill and cases in the U.S. rise to 1,500 in 46 states, you know For seniors such as Michigan’s Zavier Simpson and Jon Teske, the we’re a long way from normalcy. memories will remain unmade. On social media, Simpson aptly illustrated You can’t wish away or deny away the global threat. The games will the heartbreak for many, posting two crying emojis. return eventually, hopefully to a safer, saner world. In the meantime, if This really couldn’t be stopped, not until the virus is stopped. Once pro you ever truly wondered whether you can survive without sports, sadly, athletes were sidelined, it was hard to imagine — or justify — sending you’re about to find out. college players into the uncertain atmosphere. There was some Detroit News LOADED: 03.14.2020 discussion about postponing the tournament to see if the outbreak lessened, but the logistics weren’t feasible.

The NCAA tried, first limiting access to the media, then eliminating access for fans. The Big Ten played two games in a fan-less Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, and Michigan and Rutgers were set to resume the tournament at noon Thursday. But approximately 15 minutes before tip-off, players were called off the court and the announcement was made.

A half-hour later, Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel was walking out of the arena, his mood reflective of the day. He fully supported Big Ten commissioner Kevin Warren, as painful as the result was.

Warde Manuel

“It was the right decision to make at this time,” Manuel said. “We realized, this is bigger than playing a game under even restricted circumstances. We will play sports again in college, we’ll play basketball again, but maybe it’s time we hit the pause button and continue to figure this issue out. It’s a worldwide issue, different than anything we’ve ever dealt with.”

It indeed was a seminal moment in American sports, ratcheted up after two members of the NBA’s Utah Jazz, Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell, tested positive for the coronavirus. That forced the league to implement unprecedented measures, sending players and opposing 1180820 Detroit Red Wings

Ilitch Holdings sets up $1 million fund for part-timers affected by cancellations

Updated Mar 13, 2020; Posted Mar 13, 2020

By Ansar Khan

Ilitch Holdings announced Friday the establishment of a $1 million fund to cover one month’s wages for part-time staff that would have worked at games, concerts and events canceled or postponed due to the coronavirus crisis.

This covers events hosted by the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, 313 Presents, Fox Theatre and Little Caesars Arena.

“In this time of uncertainty, we are committed to standing with and supporting our dedicated and hardworking colleagues and providing them and their families the reassurance they deserve,” Chris Granger, group president sports and entertainment of Ilitch Holdings, said in statement.

“In other words, if they were scheduled to work at an event that has been cancelled in the next month, they will be paid. Where there are opportunities, arena staff will be moved into other roles.”

The fund will cover part-time employees’ wages for four Red Wings and eight Pistons games that were “paused,” as well as six Tigers spring training games canceled in Lakeland, Fla. This also will include Little Caesars Arena and Fox Theatre employees impacted by the postponement of concerts and events.

The release listed the following events:

Little Big Town, March 12 at Fox Theatre

WWE Friday Night Smackdown, March 13 at Little Caesars Arena

14th Annual Motor City Blues Festival, March 14 at Fox Theatre

Zac Brown Band, March 14 at Little Caesars Arena

March Badness, March 15 at Little Caesars Arena

Nick Cannon Presents: MTV Wild ‘N Out, March 19 at Little Caesars Arena

Blake Shelton, March 21 at Little Caesars Arena

Festival of Laughs, March 21 at Fox Theatre

Billie Eilish, March 23 at Little Caesars Arena

RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles, March 27 at Fox Theatre

The Bachelor Live on Stage, April 4 at Fox Theatre

NCAA Frozen Four, April 9 and 11, at Little Caesars Arena (cancelled)

“Our sincere hope is that this provides comfort to our colleagues in this difficult time,” Granger said. “When events resume, we look forward to our colleagues being safely back to work as normal.”

Michigan Live LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180821 Detroit Red Wings

NHL’s Bill Daly issues statement on what’s next for players

Updated Mar 13, 2020; Posted Mar 13, 2020

By Ansar Khan

NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly issued a statement Friday to tsa.ca outlining the next steps for players during the league’s hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19).

In summary, Daly said players are expected to remain in their club’s home cities, with the exception of those separated from family (most likely due to a recent ). The expectation is that players will be able to return to team facilities to resume skating and working out in small groups in the near future. There is no mandatory testing for players at this time, but if they exhibit symptoms, they should be tested.

Here is the full text from Daly, per tsn.ca:

“The general expectation is that players will remain in their club’s home cities absent unusual circumstances. Obviously, where a player is separated from his family because his club city residence is only temporary at this point, those players should be permitted to go home to their families in this initial phase of the pause period.

“We envision there coming a time where we transition direction from 'stay at home' to opening club facilities to players to work out and to skate on a voluntary basis in small groups similar to what we generally see prior to the beginning of team training camps. At this point, I'm not in a position to say when that will be. We will see how the next week or so plays out.

“No mandatory testing. If a player exhibits symptoms or becomes sick he will be tested, as appropriate.

“We are recommending against informal skates during this initial phase of the pause. Once we move into the next phase and players is ‘training’ for resumption of play, his activities will be subject to the protections afforded in his SPC.”

Michigan Live LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180822 Detroit Red Wings

One day after hitting pause, NHL advises all players to ‘self-quarantine’

By Aaron Portzline Mar 13, 2020

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The NHL on Friday advised all of its players to “self-quarantine in their own homes over the next week or so” while the league has locked down its rinks and settled into a “pause” in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.

“While ‘self-quarantine’ will undoubtedly impose lifestyle limitations and may seem like an overly precautious measure,” reads a memo from deputy commissioner Bill Daly to the league’s board of governors, general managers and players, “adherence to the principles for the relatively brief period of time that our medical experts deem important should allow us to be in the best position possible to assess next steps regarding the potential resumption of play.”

So far, no NHL players are known to have been diagnosed with this new strain of the coronavirus, although most NHL clubs have not tested all of their players. In Ohio, for instance, no Blue Jackets players have been tested yet because the state, with too few test kits, determines who gets tested.

Two NBA players — Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz — have been diagnosed with COVID-19, the coronavirus-caused disease.

During the “self-quarantine” period, NHL players are urged to work out in their homes — “not in a public gym,” the memo makes clear — or outside, while maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others.

After the “week or so” of self-quarantine, the league said it hopes to reopen its facilities so that players can resume their workouts, followed by a “training camp period” in which team practices could resume.

It’s made clear that the timeframe to reopen facilities and hold a “training camp period” are fluid.

The league has cautioned players against holding “player skates” away from the NHL rinks, similar to what most teams do in the buildup to training camp.

“It is important that players maintain their personal fitness and readiness to resume play to the extent reasonably possible,” the memo states, while adding, “(the league) will ensure that players are afforded sufficient time to resume skating and game preparation activities prior to any resumption of play.”

Players have been ordered to stay in their club’s city unless their immediate family lives elsewhere in North America. A player is required to inform the general manager if he wants to “self-quarantine” in a home outside the club’s city.

Injured players are allowed to continue getting treatment, the memo states.

It also assures players that they’ll continue to be paid. There are three pay cycles remaining in the 2019-20 season, including the paycheck players received Friday.

Finally, the league’s memo requests that club officials “refrain from commenting publicly on, or speculating about, what approaches the league might take in response to the dynamics of the current situation.”

It is widely believed that the NHL regular season is now finished for clubs with no chance of making the playoffs. But how the league proceeds on the other side of the “pause” — who makes the playoffs, how seeding is determined, etc. — could depend on how long the “pause” lasts.

And that’s anybody guess.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180823 Edmonton Oilers Boston .714. Tampa Bay .657.

Toronto .579. A lot of possibilities for playoffs when NHL returns from pause Metropolitan Division

Washington .652. Jim Matheson, Edmonton Journal Philadelphia .645 Published:March 13, 2020 Pittsburgh .623. Updated:March 13, 2020 11:47 PM MDT Wild cards Carolina .596 and Islanders .588.

Play-in teams: Florida (.565) vs Carolina; Columbus (.579) vs Islanders. If the NHL is saying their season is on “pause” because of the COVID-19 scare, that sounds like what you would do with your favourite TV show as The other alternative: you could make it a 72-game season, so 10 fewer you go to the fridge or bathroom. than 82, start the playoffs, say, May 9. Take one week from May 1 to May 7 to make sure every team gets to that number (for some it would Just a momentary stop in the action, we’re not shutting off the set just be one game that week, for others three or four, lots of teams two entirely, or so they’re fervently hoping, so they can still get those 82 games). Teams with the most points after 72 games are in. games in then a full playoff slate. Unfortunately, there’s wrinkles with that idea. But of course, that’s a hockey league’s well-being, not world health. In the West, 11 of the 15 teams have played 70 or 71 games right now So, what’s really realistic here? with only Dallas, Nashville, Minnesota and Vancouver at 69. The Oilers Absolute best-case scenario: the puck’s dropped again April 15. Just a are in a group with Vegas, Winnipeg, St. Louis and Anaheim at 71. one-month hiatus so we can all see where COVID-19 has taken us, how Calgary, Arizona, Colorado, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Jose are 70. many people are sick, whether the coronavirus has peaked in North In the East, it’s a little more dicey with teams having to play more games America, so the NHL can still reach 82. in that week to get to 72. But, some teams still have 14 games to reach that figure. That would The Islanders and Carolina have only played 68 games. Washington, take three weeks minimum to get that finished. Then we’re at May 7 Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Florida, New Jersey and Buffalo are 69. before the playoffs. Columbus, New York Rangers, Boston, Tampa Bay and Toronto are at Getting back to work on May 1 seems a much more hopeful target. But 70. then there is very little runway for regular-season games before the post- Three out-of-the-playoff teams — Ottawa, Detroit and Montreal — are 71. season. So, if the Oilers are at 71 games, you go back to their game 72 on the Here’s what should happen and what looks good on paper but won’t current schedule and that’s in Philadelphia against the Flyers. Long way work. to go, but so be it. You go by winning percentages, cognizant that two NHL teams — Vegas would travel to Minnesota to get to game 72. Calgary would play Carolina and New York Islanders — have only hit 68 games and the the Islanders and Jets at home. Vancouver would have games in Oilers, Vegas, Winnipeg and St. Louis are at 71. Arizona, Colorado and a home tilt with Jets. Oops, that won’t work. Top three teams in each division off their winning percentages make the That would mean the Jets at 71 games now, would be at 73. playoffs and the two wild cards in each Conference (No. 7 and No. 8) play off against the ninth and 10th place teams in a one-game play-in like So scrap that idea. they do in baseball. You would have No. 7 vs No. 10 and No. 8 vs No. 9 in each conference with the seventh and eighth seeds getting the play-in Sportsnet would love the play-in games just as major league baseball game in their building, say, on May 1. Start the playoffs May 3. does because it’s like a game-seven in a playoff round.

Here’s how the Western Conference would shake down: Teams higher-rated (No. 7 vs No. 10) risk getting beat by a hot goalie in a one-game thing, but so be it. Pacific Division And, the playoffs? Vegas .606. First round is best-of-five like it was when Oilers played the Flyers in Edmonton .585. 1980. The Oilers would play Vancouver in Round 1, Colorado vs Dallas, Tampa vs Toronto and Philly against Pittsburgh. Vancouver .565. The other three rounds would be best-of-sevens. Central Division And if it’s not going to be finished before the NHL draft June 26-27 in St. Louis .662. Montreal, move it back a week and have the seven rounds over the Colorado .657. phone like in 1979 when Edmonton took at No. 21.

Dallas .594 TV wouldn’t like it because they make a big deal of Round 1 of the draft on Friday night, but that’s the only round they care about. Free-agency The wild cards would be Nashville at .565 and Calgary at .564. The play- would start July 10, not July 1. in teams would be Winnipeg at .563 and Minnesota at .558. The Predators would get a home date with the Wild; Flames at the Then again, this is all hypothetical stuff. Our health is way more important Saddledome against the Jets. than the NHL’s.

Lowest percentage play-in winner vs Blues; second lowest vs Vegas in So we’ll see. round one of the playoffs. Edmonton Sun: LOADED: 03.14.2020 Oilers vs Canucks and Avalanche vs Stars in Round 1.

Neither of the play-in teams (Winnipeg or Minnesota) is far from qualifying so the league would be tossing them a life jacket.

Here’s how the Eastern Conference would look:

Atlantic Division 1180824 Edmonton Oilers What he should have said: “We believe it’s important to our customers that we make sure we find a way to look after those people and on behalf of , we want them to know today that we’re aggressively working on that so they’ll be able to look after their families.” JONES: Oilers leave Rogers Place staff in limbo during NHL pause Asked about Katz, Anselmi said: “Yeah, we’ve been in contact with Daryl several times a day for the last several days. He’s like the rest of us. He’s concerned about the health and welfare of everybody. Fans, players, Terry Jones people in the world. He’s concerned about getting hockey back on track Published:March 13, 2020 as soon as possible. He’s given us clear autonomy to do what’s right for the business and right for our fans. That’s what we’re doing. We’re Updated:March 13, 2020 11:46 PM MDT talking to him all the time.”

What he should have said: “Daryl believes all employees of the Oilers Entertainment Group are important and wants us to move quickly to Tom Anselmi, the new business boss of the Edmonton Oilers, was ensure they’ll be looked after.” propped up on Friday the 13th to try to come up with different ways to say nothing. As for the customers, Anselmi was asked about the March 21 season ticket renewal deadline. It’s like every franchise in the league was taking their turn to make public proclamations that NHL was “doing the right thing” by pausing the What he said: “We’ll probably end up extending it, although I haven’t season until further notice. talked to Stu McDonald in the last 15 minutes about it. In fact, we were still renewing tickets yesterday. We had a whole pile of renewals come in Some of the teams like the Calgary Flames and the Winnipeg Jets did it yesterday, thanks to our fans. We’ve got such great momentum right now Thursday afternoon. both on and off the ice that we will probably do whatever we can to make Edmonton sent out a statement featuring a couple of canned quotes from it as convenient as possible for people to stick with us and be ready for Connor McDavid and Bob Nicholson. when we get back in business.”

Friday, however, the media was invited to an otherwise dark Rogers What he should have said: “Yes. Absolutely. Definitely.” Place to interview Anselmi and general manager . It’s what you do when the objective is to do the right thing. At the last minute, Holland opted out, likely because of ongoing Edmonton Sun: LOADED: 03.14.2020 discussions involving the players association and the league and knowing he wouldn’t be able to answer many of the questions.

But that left Anselmi with an opportunity to make a strong statement or two on behalf of the owner and the organization and do the right things in a big way.

Anselmi — the president of business operations and chief operating officer who was saying he’d been in constant contact with Oilers owner Daryl Katz over the last three days — had a great opportunity to play the part of Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban.

He didn’t.

Katz didn’t.

A big question involved with the shutdown of the NHL and so many other leagues on March 12, 2020, the day the sports world stopped, was what the fate would be of the part-time staff that would be out of work with no games or concerts for the weeks and maybe months to come.

The NHL players will all be paid while they are being asked to remain in their homes in the 31 NHL cities until further notice, but it’s the Rogers Place ushers, concession stand workers, security staff, cleaning crew and others who perhaps will be hit hardest by the building going dark during the next few weeks or more because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

No Oilers games. No Oil Kings games. No concerts.

“There are going to be hourly employees that aren’t working,” said Cuban. “They get paid by the hour and this was their source of income. We’ve already started the process of having a program in place. I don’t have any details to give, but it’s certainly something that’s important to me.”

It would have been the right time and place for Anselmi, on behalf of Katz, to make a similar statement.

But when asked the question he didn’t go there.

What he said: “We’re still thinking through all of that stuff … trying to figure all of that out on the staffing side. We’re talking to all the other teams and we’re talking to the league trying to figure out what everyone else does … We’ve started to do some of the homework in talking to the other teams, so we’re aware of what the Mavericks did, what came out of New York and a couple of other teams. For the most part, nobody has a real plan yet. We’re still sort of thinking through it … But suffice to say we’re still very hopeful that hockey’s coming back and that we’re going to play a lot of playoff hockey this year and get everyone back to work as quickly as possible.” 1180825 Edmonton Oilers “We’re not taking that lightly. We understand we’ve got employees here who have families and the likes. We’ve got to think through all that stuff.” ’

Edmonton Oilers brass at a loss for answers as shutdown begins As for ticket holders, Anselmi said the Oilers are still trying to formulate a strategy on how to deal with reimbursements and possible schedule changes.

Robert Tychkowski “I would tell them to stay tuned. We don’t have an answer for that right now. Our guys were on a call with the league trying to sort through all Published:March 13, 2020 that. It’s different for everybody whether you’re a season ticket holder or Updated:March 13, 2020 11:51 PM MDT a suite holder, a sponsor or a single ticket buyer who bought a game three weeks out from now. Filed Under: “We’re trying to work through all of that. That’s in the pipeline right now; we’ll probably have some announcements to make sometime in the next There were more questions than answers Friday as Edmonton Oilers couple of days, hopefully.” president of business operations Tom Anselmi attempted to shed some Asked what’s happening with the players right now, Anselmi said they light on how a suspension of play in the National Hockey League will are all sitting around the house in a holding pattern, waiting for further impact the team and the city. instructions.

Instead, the media availability at Rogers Place only highlighted the “All we know right now is they’ve been asked to stay home. The guys are uncertainty of the entire COVID-19 situation. With a shutdown that’s waiting for direction from the league. All I know they’ve been asked to expected to last a month just one day old, and the circumstances literally stay home and refrain from being out.” changing by the hour, there still isn’t much anyone associated with the league can tell us with any degree of confidence. So there isn’t a lot of new information to be had at the moment. What Anselmi says he is sure of, though, is that things will return to normal at Oilers general manager Ken Holland was originally scheduled to take some point. How and when remain to be seen, but hockey will be back part in the media conference, but there is nothing to update on the and society will carry on until the next crisis. hockey front, either, so he postponed his availability until next week when there might be more information. “In the context of what’s going on around the world right now, it’s hard to focus on anything other than ‘Let’s get this world healthy again.’ In the meantime, Anselmi tried his best to keep everyone one in the loop. “At the end of the day we’ve all been through work stoppages, 9/11, “I’ve been around the NHL and the NBA and this is really SARS, and all these types of things. We’ll get through this and come out unprecedented,” said the former president of Maple Leaf Sports and the other end and be stronger for it.” Entertainment. Edmonton Sun: LOADED: 03.14.2020 “There’s a changing landscape by the minute. We’re talking to the league on a regular basis, as well as local and provincial health officials, trying to get information and move forward. There are just a lot of balls in the air right now. We’re 24 hours into this so it’s very much a moving target.

“We’re still very hopeful that we’re coming back and playing some or all of the balance of the regular season and playoffs this spring. We’re going to be ready for that.”

Anselmi said that Rogers Place has now gone completely dark — no hockey and no concerts for the foreseeable future — as a provincial ban on gatherings over 250 people essentially shuts down the sports and entertainment industries.

“For all intents and purposes, we don’t have anything going on in the building.”

What does that mean for arena and game day staff who make their living off of those concerts and games? That’s one of the balls in the air Anselmi was referring to.

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban came out immediately and said all of their support staff and arena staff would continue to be paid. The New Jersey Devils and a handful of other NHL teams made similar announcements.

Winnipeg Jets chairman , on the other hand, told his team’s ancillary staff that they’re on their own.

“They work when we work,” he said.

Anselmi said owner Daryl Katz isn’t committing to either camp yet, but they are discussing the matter.

“We’ve started to do some of the homework in talking to the other teams,” he said. “So we’re aware of what the Mavericks said and we’re aware of what came out of New York and a couple of other teams.

“For the most part, nobody has a real plan yet. We’re all still sort of thinking through it. But it’s important that we do think through it and do what’s right by our employees. Everybody in the market in every business, this is going to have global repercussions in the economy around the world. We get that. Whether it’s us or the guy that runs the corner store down the street. 1180826 Edmonton Oilers Oilers GM Ken Holland was scheduled to speak Friday but decided to postpone his media availability until next week because there are so many unanswered questions. At this point, it seems, there’s no idea when NHL action will resume and if the season will be completed. How Oilers plan to help arena workers unclear with games postponed Anselmi is trying to be optimistic about the Oilers returning to play sooner than later. However, there’s no question this current hiatus and the potential of a long break is devasting the franchise. The Oilers were on By Daniel Nugent-Bowman Mar 13, 2020 track to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2017 and only the second time in 14 years.

The impact of COVID-19 is ever-evolving and the uncertainty about when “Life throws curveballs, right? In the context of what’s going on around hockey will resume is palpable, leaving Oilers COO Tom Anselmi short the world right now, it’s hard to focus on anything other than getting this on answers Friday. world healthy again,” Anselmi said. “We’ve all been through work stoppages, 9/11, SARS and all these types of things. We’ll get through Making the organization’s first public comments since the NHL this and we’ll come out the other end and be stronger for it. All of us. suspended play indefinitely a day earlier, Anselmi stressed the Oilers are taking a wait-and-see approach to many of the issues at hand. “When 9/11 happened, sports was a real escape for people. The World Series really helped New York heal. We don’t have sports to help us with Most notably, Anselmi couldn’t share his plan about how or if arena staff that this time. We’re going to have to band together and do it together. I and part-time employees would be compensated while games were think we will. We’re going to end up OK out of this. It’s a speed bump, a postponed. big speed bump, but we’re going to get past it.”

Other NHL teams like the Maple Leafs, Predators, Devils, Capitals, Just how that happens remains to be seen. Lightning, Panthers and Ducks have announced some financial protection to such employees. In the NBA, Dallas Mavericks owner Mark The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 Cuban has said he’ll put a plan in place to pay hourly workers.

“We’ve started to do some of the homework in talking to the other teams, so we’re aware of what the (Dallas) Mavericks said and we’re aware of what came out of New York and a couple of other teams,” Anselmi said. “For the most part, nobody has a real plan yet. We’re all still sort of thinking through it. But it’s important that we do think through it and do what’s right by our employees.

“Everybody in the market in every business, this is going to have global repercussions in the economy around the world. We get that. Whether it’s us or the guy that runs the corner store down the street. We’re not taking that lightly. We understand we got employees here that have families. We got to think through all that stuff.”

Anselmi did add that the Oilers are consulting with other organizations to see how they’re handling the situation.

“But suffice to say, we’re still very hopeful that hockey’s coming back and that we’re going to play a lot of playoff hockey this year and get everyone back to work as quickly as possible,” he said.

That seems like wishful thinking, however.

The Oilers’ home rink is completely dark for the foreseeable future. Concerts, too, are being cancelled or postponed. It was announced that Celine Dion plans to reschedule her April 21 and 22 dates at the arena.

Arena workers won’t be there for a while.

Neither will the players. Anselmi said they’ve been told to stay at their homes. He thinks they’ve stayed in Edmonton. Anselmi wasn’t aware of any players being tested for coronavirus, including Connor McDavid. The Oilers captain missed Monday’s game and Tuesday’s practice due to illness.

Anselmi mentioned a couple of organizational employees just came back to Edmonton from a vacation in Hawaii; they’ve been asked to stay home for 14 days in accordance with Alberta Health Services recommendations. The organization has put together a coronavirus factsheet for its employees to help identify symptoms.

It hasn’t even been two days since the NBA suspended its season midway through the first period of Wednesday’s Oilers-Jets game in Edmonton.

Anselmi said he found out later in the game and postponing or cancelling it was not considered. Once he heard the NBA had closed its doors though, he had an idea of what was coming.

“All of us suspected that we weren’t too far down the road in the NHL,” he said. “We all saw a bit of a tipping point that happened yesterday where once one of us jumped off a cliff, we all knew it was the right thing.”

Sports leagues and events have been in full postponement or cancellation mode ever since. Playing hockey seems like an afterthought and there’s little clarity about what’s to come. 1180827 Edmonton Oilers Oilers forward group. Holland needs to see another 10 games (or more) in order to properly evaluate both new hires and those games might never come.

Lowetide: NHL season on hold might impact Oilers evaluations, summer The season’s interruption could be especially detrimental to Athanasiou’s plans future with the Oilers. He seemed to be more comfortable in recent games.

Why is this important? By Allan Mitchell Mar 13, 2020 Holland acquired Ennis and Athanasiou as short-term options for the current team and as possible long-term options if things worked well. Put another way, Taylor Hall and Mike Hoffman are scoring wingers who will At the trade deadline, Ken Holland made three bets in acquiring Andreas be available in free agency this summer, but younger, less expensive Athanasiou, Tyler Ennis and Mike Green. The primary consideration options are always preferable. That’s how I see the acquisitions of pertained to this year’s Oilers and any playoff hopes for the team this Athanasiou and Ennis in terms of the long haul: Inexpensive possible spring. Find Connor McDavid one or two wingers, shore up the defence options who were available and worth a test drive. with a trusted veteran and push toward a playoff spot. Evaluation That’s a completely reasonable motivation on its own. I’ve always believed a three-year window gives us a far more reliable There was a secondary consideration. It’s an important one for Holland sample for any player. If we take Athanasiou and Ennis, along with Hall this summer. In auditioning the three new acquisitions for the rest of the and Hoffman, what kind of gap is there in 5-on-5 scoring (points per 60) regular season and possible playoffs, coach would get a over three seasons? chance to see if any or all could be a long-term fit for the team. Taylor Hall: 2.27 (97 points in 2563 minutes) The coronavirus and the NHL’s pause will certainly impact the auditions and could derail the experiments completely. Andreas Athanasiou: 1.72 (76 points in 2644 minutes)

Green is injured and with the season’s restart uncertain, his two games Tyler Ennis: 1.66 (58 points in 2101 minutes) before injury might represent the sum of his time with Edmonton this season. Mike Hoffman: 1.62 (84 points in 3102 minutes)

Athanasiou, who scored in his first game with the Oilers, has played in Hall is going to be very expensive and turns 29 in November. Would he nine games, but was injured early and is only recently returning to his sign a one-year deal at reasonable dollars with an NHL team and cash in rambunctious style. on the (anticipated) increased cap room in 2021? Would that team be the Oilers? Is that an option the Oilers would consider? Based on pure talent, Only Ennis, who has posted four points in nine games and appears to Edmonton would be foolish to pass on the opportunity. Based on have chemistry with all or most of the high-end skill forwards, appears to possible cap hit, the idea is improbable. be pushing for employment beyond this season. That’s a big reason it’s easy to see why Athanasiou and Ennis fit in as The numbers possible options for Holland’s 2020-21 Oilers team. Over a three year span, both men have been productive and in Athanasiou’s case (he is 26 In the nine games played by each of the forwards, both men have been in August) there’s plenty of track before he turns 30. He is earning $3 slightly underwater in possession. Ennis is playing a feature role at 5-on- million and is an arbitration-eligible RFA this summer. If he found the 5, while Athanasiou is playing bottom-six minutes. The sample size is too range with one of Edmonton’s impact centres, Athanasiou might be a small (20 games would be far better) but early indications have Ennis very attractive alternative to signing a big-money free agent far closer to performing well enough to remain on a skill line. The math is less 30. convinced about Athanasiou but he has played a lesser role and had an injury during the nine games. Ennis, who is 31 in October, lacks Hall’s ability to push the river but has shown chemistry with major Edmonton forwards. Holland’s process The interruption of the season curtails the length of the auditions and It goes without saying the increased pool of talent at the deadline has the makes Holland’s decision more difficult. potential to either solve roster issues or open up more trade options for summer. Athanasiou, as an example, could be signed for one year, What does it all mean? several years or dealt over the summer (perhaps for a pick). That would mean signing Ennis or possibly a big-name free agent before the fall. Timing is everything, and the Holland-Athanasiou reunion needs more track in order to make an informed decision. I think Holland’s bet was an In the nine games leading up to the deadline, Edmonton iced just four astute one. If Athanasiou can score enough to land on a skill line, his men who were scoring over 2.00 points per 60 at 5-on-5: Ryan Nugent- size, skill and rambunctious style would be a good match for the up and Hopkins (3.63), Kailer Yamamoto (3.37), Leon Draisaitl (2.71) and coming Oilers. Connor McDavid 2.54). Since the trade deadline (nine games) the number of men contributing at 2.00-plus points per 60 is at six, via We don’t know the future. Both Ennis and Athanasiou have not yet Natural Stat Trick: established themselves as locks for employment in Edmonton next season and time might not allow for a full view of these two wingers. Connor McDavid 3.64 The cap, Hall’s availability and any possible games for the Oilers before Ryan Nugent-Hopkins 3.12 summer will dictate the decisions to come.

Kailer Yamamoto 2.99 As much as the two deadline acquisitions might have helped the decision along in nine games, we’re miles from knowing if they belong. Leon Draisaitl 2.71 The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 Zack Kassian 2.51

James Neal 2.04

Tyler Ennis 1.84

Alex Chiasson 1.83

Josh Archibald 1.81

Andreas Athanasiou 1.13

The combination of veterans returning from injury (Neal) and suspension (Kassian) along with the two trades has increased the overall skill in the 1180828 Florida Panthers

Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky pledges $100,000 to help pay BB&T Center workers

BY DAVID WILSON

MARCH 13, 2020 05:08 PM

Events are halted at the BB&T Center for the foreseeable future because of the coronavirus outbreak, so Sergei Bobrovsky and the Florida Panthers are making sure the part-time workers at the Sunrise arena will be paid even while the NHL is on hiatus.

Bobrovsky pledged a $100,000 donation Friday to pay arena workers while events are postponed, and his teammates are coming together to match his $100,000 donation. Panthers ownership will also chip in an undisclosed sum, a team spokesperson said.

Bobrovsky talked with ownership and his teammates Friday to discuss the plan after the team returned to South Florida. The team traveled back from Texas, where it was supposed to play the Dallas Stars, on Thursday after the league suspended play.

The donations will cover the hourly wages part-time employees were expected to work at all postponed Florida home games, plus concerts and other events at the Broward County arena. The Panthers were originally scheduled to host the New Jersey Devils on Saturday before the NHL suspended play Thursday. Florida three other home games scheduled for the rest of the month — Thursday against the Buffalo Sabres, March 21 against the St. Louis Blues and March 30 against the New York Rangers. The BB&T Center also postponed an Andre Rieu concert, which was scheduled for Friday.

Bobrovsky is in his first season with the Panthers after signing a seven- year, $70 million contract with Florida last year. The two-time Vezina Trophy winner has had an up-and-down season, allowing a career-worst 3.23 goals per game, but the goaltender has helped keep the Panthers in the playoff hunt. Florida entered the hiatus three points behind the Toronto Maple Leafs for the third and final playoff spot in the Atlantic Division.

The Panthers still do not have a concrete refund policy in place for those who purchased tickets to since-postponed events as the NHL has not yet outright canceled any games. Florida posted a frequently-asked- questions page to its team website Friday and said it encourages “fans who purchased tickets directly through the Florida Panthers to hold on to their tickets for future use. Fans who purchased tickets elsewhere should reach out to the point of purchase.” The Panthers are also pushing back their season ticket-renewal-deadline from March 21 to an undecided date and pushing back the deadline to purchase Stanley Cup playoff tickets.

Miami Herald LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180829 Florida Panthers

There won’t be any Heat, Panthers or Marlins games for a while. Here’s what Fox Sports Florida could air instead.

By WELLS DUSENBURY

MAR 13, 2020 | 5:26 PM

Could you be seeing classic Dwyane Wade games soon on TV? Perhaps some of the thrillers from the Marlins’ 2003 World Series run?

With sports completely on hiatus due to coronavirus fears, TV networks and rights-holders are scrambling to fill the sudden — and substantial — programming void with no games being played in the NBA, NHL and MLB.

Locally, Fox Sports Florida and Fox Sports Sun own the broadcast rights to the , Florida Panthers and Miami Marlins, which were scheduled to provide hundreds of hours of live programming over the next month.

The Heat, whose games air on Fox Sports Sun, have 17 games remaining, while the Panthers have 13 left on Fox Sports Florida. The Marlins (FSF) were scheduled to begin their season on March 26, but the MLB season has been postponed for at least two weeks, wiping out 13 broadcasts.

With roughly three-hour games and a 30-minute pre- and postgame show for each telecast, that leaves approximately four hours of content to fill for each game.

So what do those stations plan on airing instead? Given the abruptness of the cancellations, there’s no definitive answer yet, but there are a variety of options.

One likely possibility is re-airing old games for each team. However, it’s not as simple as just picking the games and hitting play. While the affiliates own the live rights for each team, the broadcast window closes shortly after, meaning those rights revert to their respective leagues. For example, after Fox Sports Sun airs a Heat game, it’s allowed to re-air that telecast a few more times before the rights then revert back to the NBA — usually after 24 hours.

As a result, networks have to negotiate with the leagues to re-acquire the rights to each individual game. Fox Sports Florida and Fox Sports Sun have re-aired old contests over the years, so there is a precedent for it. Last year, FSS played some of Wade’s top games throughout his career as a tribute in his final season. In honor of the Marlins’ 1997 World Series, FSF aired some of the top games from that run a few years back.

“We are monitoring the situation and we will continue our dialogue with our partners — the leagues, teams and distributors — as the RSNs have in the past when games have been delayed or not played,” Fox Sports Florida/Fox Sports Sun said in a statement.

"Our agreements with our partners provide for scenarios such as this and the RSNs have dealt with these issues successfully in the past. Certainly, the health of the public, our employees and our communities will be of paramount importance.

While team access been shut down, the stations are finishing some All- Access type pieces they already shot. At this point, it’s unlikely for there to be any team-centric studio shows for the Heat, Panthers and Marlins, but given the rapidly evolving nature of the situation, nothing is set in stone.

In addition to team-focused programming, the affiliates can dig into their content library, which includes fishing shows and poker tournaments.

On Thursday, Fox Sports Florida was left with an immediate hole as the Panthers were scheduled to play the Dallas Stars. Instead, the affiliate re-aired the Marlins-St. Louis Cardinals spring training game from earlier that day.

Sun Sentinel LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180830 Los Angeles Kings have a player test positive was only going to increase the longer we played. And so that was how the decision was made.”

The board of governors signed off on it during a Thursday afternoon Gary Bettman says NHL can find ‘credible’ way to finish regular season conference call. and award Stanley Cup Bettman said he has an internal task force that meets several times a day to discuss the issues the league faces. “What’s the latest we could actually play? How far into the summer can we go? When can we hold By HELENE ELLIOTT the draft? If we can’t hold the draft do we do a conference call? Do we move the awards show? There’s no shortage of things for us to be MARCH 13, 20206:31 PM considering which we’re doing and analyzing,” he said. “But they’re all contingencies because we don’t know when, and we don’t know the circumstances.” Commissioner Gary Bettman, who halted the NHL season on Thursday because of concerns over the coronavirus pandemic, sounded an Some NHL teams, recognizing that arena employees will suffer without optimistic note on Friday when asked what will happen next for the the paychecks they earn at games, have offered financial help to those league. He did not, however, offer an estimate of how long the league’s employees. The Pittsburgh Penguins said they will pay full and part-time “pause” will last and did not offer specifics on the impact the stoppage arena and service employees at PPG Paints Arena with funds from will have on the remainder of the regular season, the playoffs, or the Penguins players, the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation, and the Mario annual draft. Lemieux Foundation. Billionaire California businessman Ron Burkle is a co-owner of the Penguins. “I believe that in a credible, sensible way we’ll be able to, at some point, complete the season and get through the playoffs and award the Stanley Also, part-time employees at SAP Center, home of the San Jose Sharks, Cup,” Bettman said via phone during an interview aired on the NHL will be paid by Sharks Sports & Entertainment for games they were to Network. have worked the rest of this month involving the Sharks and minor- league San Jose Barracuda. And Ilitch Holdings, parent company of the “I don’t see how I could set a timeframe one way or the other. There are Detroit Red Wings, set up a $1 million fund “to cover one month’s wages people in the medical community and charged with governmental for our part-time staff for games, concerts, and events that they would decisions that are ultimately going to make the decision as to when it’s have otherwise worked were it not for the recent cancellations and safe to occupy our buildings with or without fans. So at the end of the postponements caused by the coronavirus crisis,” the company said in a day, a number is just a number. I think it’s better to say OK, we are taking statement. That includes staff at other venues owned or co-owned by the a pause and we’re focusing on what we need to do when we can come company in Detroit. back, when it’s appropriate to come back and safe to come back.” The Ducks said on Thursday that club owners Henry and Susan Samueli, A memo sent on behalf of the NHL and the NHL Players’ Assn. to who manage the Honda Center, will pay full-time and part-time workers players, teams and agents on Friday advised players to self-quarantine who were scheduled to work at now-canceled events in the arena the for six days, after which matters will be reassessed, according to a rest of this month. person familiar with the memo but not authorized to speak about it publicly. “The best thing about going home and trying to avoid as many The Southern California Amateur Hockey Assn. canceled the remainder people as possible is that the fewer people you interact with, the less of its playoffs, which were to end with 10 championship games on likely it is that you’ll contract the coronavirus,” Bettman said. “The fact of Sunday at the Toyota Sports Performance Center in El Segundo. the matter is this is an unusual, hopefully once-in-a-lifetime situation and LA Times: LOADED: 03.14.2020 so the first thing we needed to do was take the pause and get the players back to their home cities, get them home, and now we can focus on what comes next.”

In the memo, scenarios were outlined for a resumption of the season. Among them was a scenario of staging a mini training camp for players after public health officials give their approval for large gatherings. However, the ever-changing situation could render that moot. Players will receive the three paychecks they were scheduled to receive for the rest of the regular season.

Players are not allowed to practice in team facilities at the moment, but players who are injured or disabled will be allowed to receive treatment in team facilities starting on Saturday. “Once we get a handle on how many cases we might have, if any, then it may be appropriate at some point for players to be able to work out at the clubs’ facilities, maybe do some skating at the clubs’ facilities,” Bettman said, “as I know they’re anxious to be able to do things other than be at home, and to stay in shape and get back into a routine.”

Bettman said that until Wednesday afternoon he was planning to allow the season to continue with at least some teams playing in buildings without fans, and that he had told owners the league would stop play if an NHL player tested positive for the coronavirus. News that Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz had tested positive changed the NHL’s course.

“When the Utah Jazz player tested positive and the players couldn’t play the game and the fans in Oklahoma City had to be sent home already having been at the game, it occurred to me quite vividly that it was highly unlikely that we were going to get through the rest of our season without a player testing positive,” Bettman said, “ and I wanted to then get ahead of a scene like the NBA had on Wednesday night and simply stop things and pause so that we could wait to see how the pandemic plays out. ...

“I just decided in light of the fact that this pandemic seems to be affecting more and more people, and the more people you interact with the more likely it is you’re going to come in contact with it, and the fact that two of our teams occupied the locker rooms within 24 hours in the last week of the time the Utah Jazz did, again, the likelihood that we were going to 1180831 Los Angeles Kings The league is determined to award the Stanley Cup even if it means playing in July. The league’s regular season was to conclude April 4, with the playoffs to begin four days later. The last possible day for the Stanley Cup Final was set for June 13. NHL tells players, staffers to ‘self-isolate’ because of coronavirus pandemic “That would be the goal,” Bettman said of completing the season. “Health, safety, well-being of the NHL family, especially and including our fans, is most important. If the business considerations and the money were the only thing, then we and a bunch of others would keep playing.” By ELLIOTT TEAFORD | PUBLISHED: March 13, 2020 at 11:19 a.m. | UPDATED: March 13, 2020 at 11:52 a.m. Orange County Register: LOADED: 03.14.2020

What’s next? Now that the NHL has suspended its season because of the COVID-19 virus pandemic, the questions would appear to outnumber the answers by a wide margin as the league sought Friday to take steps to plan for whatever might come next.

Commissioner Gary Bettman told players and staff members to “self- isolate” and stay away from rinks and team training facilities during the hiatus. He said in an interview with The Associated Press and NHL.com that he knew of no known cases involving the league’s players.

“It was clear to me that no matter what scenario we came up with that we continued to play with, either with or without fans, it was inconceivable, certainly unlikely that we were going to get through the rest of the regular season at a minimum without somebody testing positive,” he said.

In fact, Carolina Hurricanes broadcaster John Forslund is self- quarantined at home in suburban Raleigh, North Carolina, after staying in the same hotel room in Detroit as Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert, the first NBA player to test positive for the coronavirus.

Hurricanes videographer Zach Brame also could have been exposed after he stayed in one of three rooms the Centers for Disease Control identified after the the Jazz departed the hotel Saturday and Carolina checked in Sunday, according the Raleigh News and Observer newspaper.

“It’s serious,” Forslund told the paper. “We’ve got to listen to what we’re supposed to do. And act accordingly. … Initially, we were all kind of in the same boat. And look where we are now. It’s a serious thing. You just hope and pray everybody’s going to be OK.”

Bettman also said he didn’t know when the league would resume play. The NBA and Major League Soccer each announced it would suspend play for 30 days. Major League Baseball canceled the remainder of spring training and the first two weeks of the season.

In addition, Bill Daly, the NHL’s deputy commissioner, said in a statement that players should remain in their team’s city for the time being. He didn’t not forbid travel if a player’s family resides in another city or if there are other unusual circumstances, however.

Daly did not provide a date when players could resume working out at the team’s facility.

“We envision there coming a time where we transition direction from ‘stay at home’ to opening club facilities to players to work out and to skate on a voluntary basis in small groups similar to what we generally see prior to the beginning of team training camps,” he said. “At this point, I’m not in a position to say when that will be. We will see how the next week or so plays out.”

Meanwhile, Ducks owners Henry and Susan Samueli, who also operate Honda Center, have decided to continue pay all full- and part-time workers who were scheduled to work events while the arena is shuttered through March 31.

Josh Harris and David Blitzer, the New Jersey Devils’ managing partners, also have pledged to compensate their hourly and event staff at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, while NHL games and other events are suspended.

Kelly Cheeseman, the Kings’ chief operating officer, said during a conference call Thursday he couldn’t provide an immediate answer as to whether AEG would continue to pay arena workers at Staples Center. He said discussions were ongoing.

Bettman said it would not be strictly up to the NHL as to when it resumes its season. He also didn’t rule out the possibility of playing in empty arenas and added that games would continue only when the situation is deemed to be safe enough to play again. 1180832 Minnesota Wild

NHL players encouraged to 'self-quarantine' by league

By Sarah McLellan Star Tribune MARCH 13, 2020 — 11:34PM

The immediate future of the NHL season remains in limbo after the league paused play Thursday amid the coronavirus pandemic, but it’s now clear what this hiatus will look like for players.

In a memo sent to players Friday by the NHL, players were encouraged to self-quarantine by staying at home as much as possible for the next week, or until they receive additional instructions.

Players can travel to another primary residence where their family is currently living in North America or to a residence near the city where they play, but once there, they’re being asked to avoid further travel by airplane, train or other modes of public transportation as much as feasibly possible.

After this phase, the league hopes to open team facilities for players and then begin a training-camp setup that would allow teams to practice and prepare for games. The NHL recommends players do not organize their own skates at a public facility but instead work out at home or outside (while staying 6 feet away from others) but not at a public gym.

Injured players may continue to receive treatment from team medical staffs at team facilities.

By self-quarantining, the NHL believes players will be able to determine if they become sick, reduce the risk of passing the sickness on if they do have it and minimize exposure within the community to others who are sick.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman told the Associated Press on Friday he was not aware of any player or NHL employee testing positive for COVID-19, an illness caused by exposure to a novel coronavirus, but he also said he couldn’t say for sure that no one is feeling ill or awaiting test results.

If a player develops symptoms — or someone at their home does or tests positive — the player is being instructed to contact his team’s medical director or head athletic trainer. Players are also being asked to reach out to their teams’ medical staffs if they come in contact with someone who has tested positive.

Bettman, who was optimistic the season would resume and the Stanley Cup would be handed out, didn’t put a timetable on how long this break could last. He said “several contingencies” are being evaluated and didn’t rule out the possibility of playing in empty arenas.

On Thursday, when the NHL season was suspended, teams had anywhere from 11 to 14 games remaining. The regular season was set to wrap on April 4, with the playoffs scheduled to start April 8.

Although it’s unclear how much — if any — of the season will be salvaged, the NHL is at least planning for players to return to action by issuing these guidelines of how to prepare while taking precautions to stay healthy during the outbreak.

Star Tribune LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180833 Minnesota Wild As I approach my 100th birthday, it’s easy to say that one of the biggest accomplishments in my life is playing a small part in helping to bring major league sports to Minnesota.

The sports world has stopped before, but it always returns The fact is I have watched this town go from being one with no professional sports teams to one of only 13 cities in the country with an NFL, NBA, NHL and MLB franchise.

MARCH 13, 2020 — 11:11AM I was involved in the first pro sports franchise in the state when I helped bring the Lakers here in 1947, which turned out to be a big SID HARTMAN success as they won six championships, including five NBA titles.

A group of business leaders in the state had brought in National Covering sports teams and going to sporting events has been part of my Basketball League teams Oshkosh and Sheboygan for an exhibition everyday life and career for eight decades, and it’s hard to believe the game in 1946, and it drew 5,500 to the Minneapolis Auditorium. I had way the sporting world has been impacted this week by a virus that has read that the Detroit Gems pro basketball franchise was up for sale, so I basically shut down every major sporting event in the country and in approached a couple of Minneapolis businessmen — Morris Chalfin and Minnesota. Ben Berger — for the $15,000 it would take to buy the Gems.

Everyone in the leagues and in the offices of the Gophers, Timberwolves, I went to the airport with that check in my hand, and Minneapolis landed Vikings, Twins, Wild and every other sports operation in this state knows its first pro sports franchise. there might be times when they have to make tough decisions about That was the start of the Lakers. whether to play. Newspapers did PR Still, sports are important not only to fans and players and teams, but also to the huge economy that supports these events. It might seem strange that a sportswriter was involved with operating a team, but in those days the sports editors allowed every staff member to There have been times in my career when sports have taken a back seat do public relations for some kind of a sport, whether it be professional to much larger concerns in the country, but they have also been a key wrestling, basketball, boxing or anything like that. part of holding Minnesota and the country together during difficult times. You could never do that now at the Star Tribune or any other newspaper, The first column I ever wrote for the paper was on Sept. 11, 1945, about nobody would even think of it. But in those days it was allowed and even a week after the end of World War II. encouraged. And while there may not be a comparison in terms of the war and this Back then sportswriters didn’t make a lot of money, so having a side PR health scare, the fact is that during the war years sports proved to be a job was allowed for years. No doubt there was conflict of interest in all of key factor in keeping people together and bringing the country back. these moves. But the paper encouraged it, because they were so eager My first column in the paper started like this: to make this a major league city and felt that I could be a help because of my contacts. “Ticket Manager Marsh Ryman reports that the football ducat sale is the highest since the start of the war. Mail order for season tickets closed For 10 years I ran the club with the permission of Max Winter, the Lakers Saturday. The estimated sale is around 9,500. This is far from the 17,000 general manager who spent most of the basketball season in Hawaii. I that were sold in 1937, but a lot better than any of the war years. made most of the personnel decisions and handled the draft and contract Incidentally the University of Minnesota is protected even if it can’t negotiations until Bob Short bought the team in 1957. replace the Seahawk game. The season-ticket book clearly states more Unfortunately, after becoming the first pro sports dynasty, the Lakers ran than one game must be postponed before a refund is necessary. into problems. They had some down seasons and couldn’t find a building “However, this doesn’t mean the boys aren’t trying to get a game. They to play regular games in, and they wound up moving to Los Angeles, want one and are doing their best to line one up.” where they have been very successful.

Everyone impacted Last month, Forbes Magazine ran a list of the top values for NBA franchises — the Lakers ranked No. 2 at $4.4 billion. The rest of the column featured updates on players who had been impacted by the war. To think it all started in 1947 with $15,000.

The great Pat Harder, who played running back at Wisconsin and made I owe a lot of appreciation to some of the businessmen who showed me the College Football Hall of Fame, was waiting on a discharge from the great thanks for these contributions with the building of a statue in Marines after a knee operation. His teammate Elroy Hirsch, one of the downtown Minneapolis that stands between Target Center and Target best football players ever, was also in the Marine Corps. Field.

I also had an item after talking with Bob Hanzlik, another Wisconsin Star Tribune LOADED: 03.14.2020 football standout who had enrolled at the University of Minnesota following the war.

“Bob Hanzlik still is getting back letters that he wrote to his Wisconsin teammates, Dave Schreiner and Tom Baumann, who were killed at Okinawa,” the column read. “Hanzlik wrote to Schreiner every week during the 18 months he was overseas. … Incidentally, Bob thinks Wisconsin got an awfully tough break when they lost backfield coach Howie O’Dell in 1942. Hanzlik says the Badgers were crazy about O’Dell and he had plenty to do with developing the ’42 club. O’Dell coached in the spring and then left in the fall to take a head coaching job at Yale.”

Even then, in the most difficult of times for someone like Hanzlik, football was a way to not focus so much on the difficulties of the war.

Of course, the current situation around sports doesn’t have the gravity of those days in the 1930s and ’40s, but you can still feel how the loss of sports signals that the country is in a difficult position.

But it’s also true that when games are played again, it will bring a lot of comfort to teams and fans.

Pro-Minneapolis 1180834 Minnesota Wild combine — great athletes running around in shorts in front of nothing but officials.

Sports without cheering is a beach without sand. When American sports leagues shut down, they got it right Miss it all you want, while accepting that packing athletes — much less fans, arena workers, cheerleaders, bands and media — into arenas and stadiums could worsen the contagion, leading to mass illness and, MARCH 13, 2020 — 7:21AM according to some experts, perhaps millions of American deaths.

JIM SOUHAN It’s time to care more about your grandfather’s mortality than your team’s record.

Too often, sports become an obsession. I remember getting off the When terrorists destroyed the Twin Towers, American sports barely Green Line outside of TCF Bank Stadium the Sunday after news broke paused. that Adrian Peterson had whipped his son with a switch, gouging his skin. As ash hovered above Ground Zero, Bud Selig and Paul Tagliabue, the There were Vikings fans wearing Peterson jerseys, carrying switches, commissioners of Major League Baseball and the NFL, hemmed and because why would you not find child abuse funny, especially if you can hesitated but eventually postponed games for one week. Seven college toast to it with pregame beers? football conferences decided to play that week, canceling only after the NFL set its precedent. If truth is the first casualty of war, perspective is the first casualty of fandom. This is the tightrope we who love sports need to walk — By Sept. 17, as America mourned and raged, the games played on, between traditional passion and newfound acceptance that you can’t perhaps providing a psychic poultice of normalcy and distraction, have athletes sharing a basketball or a locker room when lives are at perhaps merely affirming our addiction. stake. One week. That’s the longest America has willingly gone without Sports are important, in their way. Sport is commerce and community professional games since World War I, until now. On Thursday, March pride, a social ladder and an easily accessible inspiration, ever-present 12, the sports world played freeze tag. entertainment and a social lubricant. The avalanche of season-threatening decisions began Wednesday night, Sports will always matter, but the games don’t matter enough to put when the NBA suspended play after Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert Americans at risk. tested positive for this novel coronavirus, a day after he playfully touched the microphones and recorders of a group of reporters. We are likely entering a month or two in which public gatherings of all kinds will be banned or restricted. On Thursday, the men’s pro tennis association announced a six-week suspension of play. We will likely see a shortened baseball season and a canceled or postponed Olympics. Major League Soccer, Minnesota United’s league, suspended matches for 30 days. Welcome to the new abnormal. Please wash your hands, and your giant foam fingers. On Thursday the PGA called off the remaining three rounds of The Players and all events through the Valero Texas Open. The next Star Tribune LOADED: 03.14.2020 tournament on the schedule is The Masters in April.

The NHL said it would suspend play, which meant that the Wild did not go forward with its game Thursday night at Xcel Energy Center.

Major League Baseball canceled the rest of its spring training games and postponed the start of the regular season for two weeks.

College basketball conference tournaments fell like confetti, and then the NCAA canceled not only its basketball tournaments, but all other winter championships and spring sports as well.

NFL teams began pulling scouts off the road, and colleges began canceling pro day workouts to evaluate draft prospects.

March 12, 2020, is the day that sports stopped cold.

Except that this isn’t really about sports.

This is about American sports reflecting America’s reality, instead of serving as diversion.

It was often said, starting on Sept. 17, 2001, that sports helped our country heal, gave us a secular public space in which to gather and cheer, to honor our dead and our first responders.

On March 12, 2020, the enemy is ethereal, and palliative sports remedies will remain theoretical.

We are a nation without games, and that is how it should be, for now.

If you are complaining about the postponements and cancellations, please stop.

If you are equating this novel coronavirus to the flu, please do more or better research.

If you are struggling to envision what could happen in our country over the next month, you are forgiven, because we have not experienced anything like this since the Spanish flu killed an estimated 675,000 Americans in 1918.

What makes sports more than upright hot yoga is context and crowds. March Madness without cheering fans would be something like the NFL 1180835 Minnesota Wild The Wolves had none of the Wild’s playoff hopes, but they were trying to figure out what they have in several new pieces on the roster after a series of trades in early February overhauled the roster. Our Jon Krawczynski went into detail about where this leaves the Wolves. COVID-19 and Minnesota sports: From pros to preps, the latest information Last update: Friday, March 13

Minnesota United

By Zack Pierce Mar 13, 2020 After a solid two wins to start the season, the Loons are also on hiatus after MLS on Thursday announced a 30-day suspension of match play. There’s also a team training moratorium in effect through Sunday.

The COVID-19 outbreak has brought most of the sports world to an Last update: Friday, March 13 unprecedented halt, canceling seasons and tournaments from the professional ranks on down. As the world grapples with a growing health Colleges crisis, here’s a look at where we stand locally with the affected Minnesota The Big Ten men’s basketball tournament on Thursday was canceled sports teams. We’ll keep this updated throughout the coming weeks as mid-tournament, and both the men’s and women’s NCAA tournaments more meaningful information comes to light. were ruled out as part of a blanket cancelation of all winter and spring Twins NCAA championships.

Spring training has been suspended and the start of the regular season That includes men’s and women’s hockey, which both saw conference has been delayed “at least two weeks” as Major League Baseball braces and national tournaments halted Thursday. The Gopher men were set to to be the next professional league to see regular-season games lost or face Penn State in the Big Ten tournament semifinals on Saturday. The rescheduled. On Friday afternoon, players were sent a memo giving Gopher women were scheduled to host Ohio State on Saturday in the them the option to return home — likely an indication that the league is first round of the NCAA tournament. The NCHC Frozen Faceoff was set anticipating a longer delay. to begin Friday with North Dakota, Minnesota-Duluth and St. Cloud State among the quarterfinal competitors. Minnesota State and Bemidji State It’s far too early to have a clear idea how this impacts the Twins — there were set to play in the WCHA men’s semifinals this weekend. are “no playbooks for what comes next,” team president Dave St. Peter said in a tweet — but our Aaron Gleeman looks at how a shortened The NCAA wrestling championships were set to be held at U.S. Bank season might impact a team with injury and other workload-related Stadium and were expected to smash attendance records for the sport. questions. Last update: Friday, March 13 Last update: Friday, March 13 Whitecaps High schools The Whitecaps were set to play in the National Women’s Hockey On Friday, the Minnesota State High School League joined the rest of the League’s Isobel Cup Final in Boston on Friday. That too was postponed. sports world in canceling events — bringing an end to the in-progress A league statement said they would reschedule the game for a later date. girls’ basketball state tournament and also canceling the remaining boys’ Last update: Friday, March 13 section finals and the state tournament to follow next week. Vikings “Amid growing concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic, the remainder of the girls state basketball tournament and boys section/state basketball So far, the NFL world has seen minimal disruption in its offseason. The tournaments have been canceled,” the MSHSL said in a statement. “The Vikings announced Thursday that they were suspending travel for safety of all concerned is paramount.” coaches and scouts until further notice and otherwise taking standard precautions around their facility. The league’s free agency period is still The cancelation of the girls’ basketball tournament brings an early end to expected to open next week and next month’s draft still figures to take the career of Hopkins senior Paige Bueckers, the nation’s top prep player place in some form. who will attend Connecticut in the fall. Her Royals were slated to play in the Class 4A state title game against Farmington on Saturday. Last update: Friday, March 13

Spring sports will have limited participation rules and no scrimmages, Lynx practices or competitions with other schools until at least April 6. The Lynx are also in their offseason, but the issue will have more Last update: Friday, March 13 immediacy very soon. The WNBA Draft is April 17 and the Lynx’s training camp begins April 26, with the regular season set to start May 15. Wild The team released a statement Thursday saying they “continue to The Wild may never find out how their playoff push was going to end. On scenario plan around our upcoming events and season.” Thursday, the NHL joined the NBA in halting its season as the Wild sat one point out of a playoff spot with 13 games to go. The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 The NHL hopes to resume play “as soon as it is appropriate and prudent,” but there’s no telling when that will be at this point. The league said it would still like to complete the season and Stanley Cup playoffs, but how that will look is completely unknown. Depending on timing, the NHL could decide to skip right to the playoffs, which would leave the Wild out of the mix if the current format is used.

Our Michael Russo has more on what it means for the Wild. The Athletic NHL’s James Mirtle has more on what the league might look like after a return.

Last update: Friday, March 13

Timberwolves

On Wednesday, the NBA was the first major sports league to announce a postponement of its season after Utah Jazz star Rudy Gobert tested positive for the coronavirus shortly before he was to play in a game against the . The game was canceled, the announcement of Gobert’s diagnosis came and the league was put on pause shortly thereafter. 1180836 MontrealCanadiens bad luck. The Seattle team has been badly battered, (Bobby) Rowe, (Frank) Foyston, (Cully) Wilson, (Muzz) Murray and (Jack) Walker all having had injuries. (Bert) Corbeau, the great Canadien , was hurt in the very first game and has not been able to do more than Stu Cowan: Echoes of 1919 — Spanish flu put end to Canadiens' Cup substitute since. run “The great overtime games of the series have taxed the vitality of the players to such an extent that they are in poor shape indeed to fight off such a disease as influenza. However, the Canadiens are being given STU COWAN, Updated: March 13, 2020 the very best of care, nurses and physicians being in attendance at all times on them and every other attention is being shown the stricken players.” NHL commissioner Gary Bettman is hoping to crown a Stanley Cup champion this year, but it might not happen because of the coronavirus Canadiens GM Kennedy wanted to forfeit to Seattle, but Metropolitans pandemic. GM Pete Muldoon refused to accept because of the circumstances with the flu and the Stanley Cup wasn’t awarded. Bettman announced Thursday that the NHL was going to “pause” the season because of the virus, noting: “Our goal is to resume play as soon Four days later, on April 5, Canadiens defenceman died at age as it is appropriate and prudent, so that we will be able to complete the 37 from pneumonia as a result of the flu while in the Seattle Sanatorium. season and award the Stanley Cup.” Hall was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1961.

There’s no guarantee that will happen and there’s a possibility the Kennedy — a Montreal entrepreneur who purchased the Canadiens in Stanley Cup won’t be awarded for only the third time in history. 1910, changed the uniform colours from blue to red and created the iconic CH logo — never fully recovered from the Spanish flu and died on The last time was 2005, when Bettman and the NHL’s team owners Oct. 19, 1921, at age 39. His widow, Myrtle Kendall, later sold the team locked out the players in a labour dispute, forcing the cancellation of the to businessmen Joseph Cattarinich, and Louis entire season. The first time was 1919 because of an influenza Letourneau for $11,500. pandemic. Montreal Gazette LOADED: 03.14.2020 The Spanish flu infected 500 million people around the world from January 1918 through December 2020 and killed more than 20 million. It also forced the cancellation of the Stanley Cup final between the Canadiens and after five games had been played and the series was tied 2-2-1.

In those days, the Stanley Cup final was played between the Pacific Coast Hockey Association champion and the NHL champion, with the leagues alternating as host. The Metropolitans were the host team in 1919, so the Canadiens had to travel from Montreal to Seattle by train and it took a heavy toll.

The First World War from 1914-18 spread the Spanish Flu with mass movements of men aboard ships and doctors had yet to learn it was caused by a virus. There were also no antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, which attacked weakened bodies and could lead to death.

The Canadiens and Metropolitans split the first four games of the 1919 Stanley Cup final, with Seattle winning Games 1 and 3 by scores of 7-0 and 7-2 and Montreal winning Games 1 and 5 by scores of 4-2 and 4-3 in overtime. Game 4 ended 0-0 after two overtime periods.

After the double-overtime game, both teams were exhausted and fighting the flu before Game 5, which was played three days later. The Canadiens’ Jack McDonald scored the OT winner in Game 5 while the Metropolitans were playing a man short. The Metropolitans’ only healthy extra player, Frank Foyston, was too tired to replace as he came to the bench for a change and McDonald took advantage, scoring the winner.

Game 6 was scheduled to be played three nights later, on April 1, but was officially cancelled that afternoon.

“Definite and final announcement was made by the Arena management at 2:30 p.m. that there will be no more world series games here this year,” the Montreal Gazette reported in the next day’s newspaper with a Seattle dateline. “At noon today workmen started tearing up the Arena ice floor preparatory to converting the building into a roller skating rink. The fact that the ice was being taken up settled all arguments as to whether or not the series would be continued if the visitors were able later to put enough men on the ice.

“(Newsy) Lalonde, (Louis) Berlinquette, (Billy) Coutu and (general manager George) Kennedy are reported only slightly ill. Last night the remaining four men came down, leaving only (Didier) Pitre, (Odie) Cleghorn and (Georges) Vézina, who are not afflicted. It is believed here the Canadiens contracted the disease in Victoria, where the players of that team are just recovering from influenza, seven of them having been in bed at one time.

“Not in the history of the Stanley Cup series has the world’s hockey championship been so beset with hard luck as has this one. Of the 19 players engaged in it, hardly one of them has gone through without some 1180837 New Jersey Devils

Coronavirus closes Prudential Center: Devils will continue to pay hourly, event employees for postponed games, concerts

Updated Mar 13, 2020; Posted Mar 13, 2020

By Chris Ryan

The NHL schedule is suspended, and Prudential Center has postponed all events through the end of March in response to the coronavirus outbreak.

Along with keeping fans out of the building for games and concerts, the shutdown also put in limbo the status of part-time, hourly and event employees who work those days and nights at The Rock.

In response to the shutdown, Devils managing partners Josh Harris and David Blitzer committed to paying those employees for any postponed or canceled concerts and games, saying “it’s important to band together and lift each other up during these times.”

“We are incredibly grateful for the community of people that come together each game and event night to make the Prudential Center an unbelievably special place for our fans,” Harris said. “We realize the suspension of our Devils games and concerts has created an unintended hardship for the men and women who provide for their families and believe our commitment to them in this unprecedented time is imperative.”

Including Thursday’s postponed game between the Devils and Carolina Hurricanes, Prudential Center was scheduled to host six NHL games before the end of March.

Two concerts — Billie Eilish and Wild 'N Out Live — were also postponed this month. The Devils also have one NHL game scheduled for April 2 — their final scheduled home game of the 2019-20 season — that is still up in the air.

“For many of us as fans, it’s the people who work the games and concerts at Prudential Center that make the experience so incredible,” Blitzer said. “These are the folks that feel like family every time I step in the arena, so it’s natural to show our support and commitment through this gesture.”

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Devils’ P.K. Subban on coronavirus suspending NHL season: ‘There’s bigger things going on’

Updated Mar 13, 2020; Posted Mar 13, 2020

By Chris Ryan

The NHL officially entered its first full day of a hiatus from play on Friday due to the coronavirus pandemic, and reality has set in for players no longer on the ice on a daily basis.

Devils defenseman P.K. Subban took to Twitter to address the situation, posting a 58 second video with his thoughts about the NHL suspending play.

Subban called it a crazy couple weeks and days, and he acknowledged there are more important things than hockey right now.

“The reality is that there’s bigger things going on, obviously health concerns,” Subban said in the video. “There’s obviously a lot of things to consider. All I think about is I hope that everybody is staying healthy and doing everything they can to stay healthy. Nobody’s above this. We’ve all got to do the right things and think about the right things. Health is No. 1.”

Subban, the Devils and the rest of the NHL have canceled all activities for the time being, including practices, so all players are currently in waiting mode to see what comes next.

Subban is in his first season with the Devils after being acquired from the in a trade in June of 2019.

He has played in all but one of the Devils’ games in 2019-20, going for seven goals and 11 assists.

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No positive coronavirus tests for any NHL players, says Gary Bettman

Updated Mar 13, 2020; Posted Mar 13, 2020

By Chris Ryan

The NHL suspended its regular season on Thursday in response to the coronavirus outbreak, joining multiple pro sports leagues around the country and the world to make similar decisions.

While the NBA made that call after Utah Jazz forward Rudy Gobert tested positive for the coronavirus, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said during an interview with CNBC on Thursday that he was unaware of any NHL players testing positive.

“We’ve sent everybody home and we’ve asked them to self-quarantine for the time being,” Bettman said. “And we’re going to monitor the evolution of the coronavirus.”

Bettman said the NHL had been watching the situation develop for weeks, and the events around the sports world during the past 48 hours prompted him to arrive at the decision to pause the schedule on Wednesday night. The official announcement was made on Thursday after Bettman spoke with owners and the NHL Board of Governors.

Bettman didn’t want to be put in the same position as the NBA, where the league needed to cancel a game moments before tip-off.

“When the NBA had a positive test and they had to cancel a game at that moment, it was clear to me and through all of our calculus, we knew that once a player tested positive, it would be a game changer," Bettman said. “I decided it was time to get ahead of it and not wait for one of our players to get tested.”

Bettman said he doesn’t have a timetable for when the league could resume play, but he remains optimistic that the NHL can complete its season. He also said he didn’t know how far into the summer the NHL would be able to push games, if that situation presented itself.

“I’m a little hesitant to use the word suspension because our hope and our expectation is when things get back to normal and it’s safe and it’s prudent, we can go back and resume the season, and ultimately have the Stanley Cup awarded,” Bettman said.

“My hope is at some point we will get back to some normalcy. That’s not just my hope for the NHL and sports it’s my hope for the country.”

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NJ Devils owners Josh Harris, David Blitzer pledge to take care of arena workers

Abbey Mastracco, Published 1:59 p.m. ET March 13, 2020 | Updated 2:47 p.m. ET March 13, 2020

New Jersey Devils owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer have joined a growing list of professional sports owners trying to do the right thing in the midst of an unprecedented shutdown.

Harris and Blitzer will continue to pay their hourly arena and event staff while the NHL season is suspended and Prudential Center is dark.

"In this time of need we need to band together and take care of people," Harris said Thursday in a statement. "Our teams, our cities and the leagues in which we operate are a family and we are committed to looking out for one another."

The league went on hiatus Thursday amid growing fears over the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, less than 24 hours after the NBA did the same. Harris and Blitzer also own the and Crystal Palace FC of the Premier League.

MLS soon made the same decision as the NHL and NBA and MLB suspended spring training and will delay the start of the 2020 season. The NCAA Tournament was canceled and so were the rest of the winter/spring sports.

But the effects of this shutdown have a reach far greater than just athletes and coaches. The drastic move to suspend all sports left tens of thousands of arena workers without income. Gameday and event staffers typically make hourly wages and without any events, they have no hours to clock.

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban was the first of the major pro sports figures to make a pledge to take care of hourly workers at American Airlines Center, the home of the Mavericks and the NHL’s Dallas Stars.

"I reached out to the folks at the arena and our folks at the Mavs to find out what it would cost to support — financially support — people who aren't going to be able to come to work," Cuban told reporters Wednesday night. "They get paid by the hour, and this was their source of income. So, we'll do some things there. We may ask them to go do some volunteer work in exchange, but we've already started the process of having a program in place.

“I don't have any details to give, but it's certainly something that's important to me.”

Others have followed his cue.

Thursday afternoon, Cleveland Cavaliers’ star Kevin Love pledged $100,000 through his foundation for arena workers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse and he hopes others will donate through his foundation as well. The Cavaliers also vowed to help with workers who make hourly wages.

Henry and Susan Samueli, the owners of the Anaheim Ducks, announced Friday they will continue to pay all full- and part-time staff of the Ducks and Honda Center. Like Harris and Blitzer, they own the team and operate the building.

As part of the move to try and flatten the curve of the rapidly spreading coronavirus, Newark’s premier sports and entertainment venue postponed all events for the month of March. Even if the event staff is able to resume working concerts and other events in April, we don’t yet know how long the NHL will be on break. Harris and Blitzer are heavily invested in the Newark community and this shows just how committed they are.

Bergen Record LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180841 New Jersey Devils course). The last time New Jersey had two picks in the top 11 was 1991, and it worked out pretty well. Scott Niedermayer (No. 3) and Brian Rolston (No. 11) each played more than 1,200 NHL games.

What the coronavirus shutdown means for the Devils at a critical juncture While the Devils could have three first-round picks, they don’t have another one until the fourth round. The shutdown will affect their ability to scouting the players available in this draft, as The Athletic’s Corey Pronman wrote. The three major junior leagues in , the USHL By Corey Masisak Mar 13, 2020 and the NCAA have all either suspended or canceled their seasons. Nearly every league in Europe has, as well.

The NHL’s decision to suspend play indefinitely, and the rest of the The IIHF U-18 world championships, a huge scouting event, has been sports world shutting down around them, is part of the larger effort to canceled. We have no idea how all of this is going to affect the 2020 slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and save lives. What would draft, but players who might have boosted their stock during the junior have happened on the ice over the next few weeks for the Devils and playoffs or U-18 tournament won’t have that chance. others is of little value in comparison. Hitting on a few picks in 2020 and finding long-term additions to a Nico The Devils were on the cusp of a critical juncture in franchise history and Hischier/Jack Hughes-fronted core could be the turning point for a Devils the league’s hiatus for an undetermined amount of time adds another franchise desperate to build a sustainable Stanley Cup contender. layer of uncertainty. New Jersey was facing an offseason with an interim Mackenzie Blackwood general manager, an interim head coach and a cantankerous fan base after missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the seventh time in eight years. Blackwood has had a fantastic rookie season and cemented his status as This time was the most agonizing of them all because expectations the club’s goaltender of the present and future. Every young player on soared before a season that crumbled almost from the start. the roster could use more NHL experience, but his second-half surge was pushing him into the Calder Trophy discussion. Blackwood’s 22 wins The NHL will come back eventually, but as The Athletic’s James Mirtle and .915 save percentage in 47 games are a success considering his posited on Thursday, the league could return for a playoffs-only team is near the bottom of the standings, but missing out on another 7-9 conclusion before the offseason begins. That would mean no more games might cost him some votes. Devils hockey until at least September (assuming this season concludes early enough to start next year on time). The Athletic’s Dom Luszczyszyn thinks Blackwood deserves the award. Two defensemen, Vancouver’s Quinn Hughes and Colorado’s Cale Let’s look at who and what could be affected by the NHL shutting its Makar, have been the frontrunners for most of the season. Hughes (56 doors because of a global pandemic. points) and Makar (50) have the most and second-most points by a GM search rookie defenseman in the past 27 years, even if the season is truncated.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported the Devils interviewed former Cory Schneider Canucks general manager Mike Gillis for their GM job, a post Tom A few weeks ago, this was considered a lost season for the veteran Fitzgerald has held since the Devils fired Ray Shero on Jan. 12. goaltender. Schneider faced legitimate questions about his future with Friedman also said the Devils are not expected to try to interview the Devils despite having two seasons left on his contract. Then, for the candidates who currently work for other teams until the season ends second straight year, Schneider appeared to be in the midst of a post- (they would have to ask for and receive permission from those teams). trade deadline revival. He stopped 119 of 125 shots and went 3-0-1 in That would indicate the Devils were comfortable waiting until the end of four games. He was scheduled to start Thursday night against the the season before making a decision. The league shutting down could Hurricanes and was likely to get at least four or five starts through the complicate things. What happens if this season ends much later than end of the schedule. expected and the entire offseason calendar is condensed? Would the Would eight great games at the end of a bad season change his future league allow the Devils to speak to employed candidates during the anymore than the four he played? If the NHL doesn’t finish the regular break? Will it increase the chances Fitzgerald keeps the job? season, we won’t know. His overall numbers through the past two It’s too early to speculate, but the GM search is the biggest decision seasons are 34 starts, nine wins and an .897 save percentage. facing the franchise. That save percentage would be just about average for No. 2 goalies over Coach search the course of a full season. The problem has been the wild swings in his play — either among the worst in the league or the best with very little in All of the questions above apply to the Devils’ coaching search, as well, between. Expect Schneider’s future with the team to be one of the only they will almost certainly wait until the GM is in charge. If there’s less biggest storylines this offseason. time to pick a GM, they could have even less to choose a coach. Travis Zajac The 2020 NHL Draft Zajac has played 991 games in his NHL career and the Devils had 13 left While the Devils have had the No. 1 pick in two of the past three years, on the 2019-20 schedule. If all had gone according to plan, Zajac would it’s not hyperbole to consider the 2020 draft one of the most important in have played his 1,000th game on March 28 at the Prudential Center team history. New Jersey has never had two top-10 selections in an NHL against the Flyers. His family was planning to come from Manitoba for draft, and the Devils have never made three picks in the first round the game. It was going to be a highlight of a season short on them. before. If there are no more regular-season games this year, the milestone and If the regular season is over and, as Mirtle suggested, playoff teams are celebration will have to wait. determined by points percentage, the Devils could have three first-round picks, including two in the top 10, after trades with Arizona and Tampa Jack Hughes Bay (for Vancouver’s pick). It’s been a frustrating rookie season for Hughes, who entered the league New Jersey would have the sixth-best lottery odds, and its own pick as one of the most high-profile young American players in the history of would land at No. 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8 or 9 overall. The Coyotes would have the sport. He had spent the past few weeks playing on the wing of the top the 10th-best lottery odds. Arizona would have an 11.2 percent chance of line, next to Hischier and Kyle Palmieri. The move didn’t necessarily landing a top-3 pick (again, assuming the lottery happens without any kickstart a surge in production, but he was also set to move back to changes). If the Coyotes did land the first, second or third selection, they center against Carolina. would keep it and the Devils would receive an unprotected 2021 pick. If A dozen or so games at center might have given him the chance to show they don’t win the lottery, the Devils would add either the No. 10, 11 or 12 he had improved in certain areas and sent him into the offseason feeling pick (there is less than a 0.1 percent chance it could be No. 13). better about his rookie season. It’s also possible Hughes now has a The Canucks would be a playoff team in this scenario, and if Vancouver longer offseason and more time to rest after a whirlwind year, giving him does not reach the conference finals, the Devils would also receive either a chance to develop his body ahead of his sophomore campaign. the No. 17 or 18 pick (assuming the normal draft order rules still apply, of P.K. Subban

Subban was on the verge of the least productive season of his NHL career unless he went on a point-per-game tear during the stretch run. He should have been able to add to his total given the way he was playing.

Turning the page on the season might be the best thing for Subban. A longer offseason could benefit him, considering his injury history and his 31st birthday in May.

Jesper Bratt – Pavel Zacha – Nikita Gusev

This became the club’s most productive trio after Blake Coleman was traded to Tampa Bay. They had strong chemistry at even strength and helped breathe life into a second power-play unit that went more than half the season without scoring a goal.

Bratt had eight goals and 16 points in 20 games since the All-Star break, including several highlight-reel tallies. Zacha had five goals and 14 points in 21 games in that span, the most consistently impactful stretch at center he’s had in his four-year career.

Gusev proved his productive campaign wasn’t just a product of playing with Coleman and Zajac. After a rough start, Gusev had 36 points in 46 games, starting with a breakout game in Montreal on Thanksgiving.

Another 13 games of this trio might have convinced the organization to find a way to keep them together next season. Bratt, and especially Zacha, could have used the time to build on their success.

Everyone in Binghamton

The B-Devils won again Wednesday night, running their demolition of the AHL to 25 victories in 32 games. They were 7-15-4 at one point, but have surged into playoff position. If the Calder Cup Playoffs do happen without any more regular-season games, they’ll face the North Division-leading in the first round. If there are more regular-season games, the B-Devils could still track down Utica and Rochester to finish second in the division.

Will a long break cool off one of the hottest hockey teams on the continent? Could some players have gotten a look in New Jersey at the end of the season? Probably. Janne Kuokkanen was set to play his second game with the Devils on Thursday and had already moved up in the lineup.

If the NHL and AHL return just for the postseason, Kuokkanen, Michael McLeod, Joey Anderson, Daokta Mermis and Matt Tennyson would all return to the B-Devils. It will be interesting to see if the AHL amends the rule about its roster deadline (you have to be on an AHL roster at 3 p.m. on NHL trade deadline day to be eligible for the Calder Cup Playoffs) if non-playoff teams in the NHL want more players to their farm clubs for more playing time.

If the Calder Cup Playoffs do happen, there will be more hockey for Devils fans this season. New Jersey’s AHL affiliate has won just two playoff rounds since 1998, so any success would be a welcome boost as a critical and question-filled offseason approaches.

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Commissioner Gary Bettman still hopes to salvage NHL season

By Colin Stephenson

Updated March 13, 2020 8:27 PM

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman is hoping that the league, which halted its season on Thursday due to the coronavirus crisis, will be able to resume play in some manner and be able to crown a 2019-20 champion.

“We’re doing all sorts of modeling, whether it’s completing the existing regular season as is, and then a full playoffs, or whether or not, based on time constraints, we’re going to have to make adjustments and do something different, creative,’’ Bettman told Canadian sports outlet Rogers SportsNet. “My hope and expectation is that we can finish the season in some form, award the Stanley Cup.’’

Bettman, who did several interviews with various media outlets Friday, said that as far as he is aware, no NHL player or league employee has yet tested positive for coronavirus.

Bettman said the NHL had been discussing the coronavirus pandemic for weeks, and he knew, as soon as the NBA suspended its season Wednesday night, after Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert tested positive for the virus, that the NHL would shut down as well. The league followed the NBA’s lead on Thursday, after Bettman held a conference call with the Board of Governors.

Bettman would not give a timetable for how long the league can remain dark before it is too late to resume the season.

“We’re looking at the calendar,’’ he told the league’s website, nhl.com. “We’re looking at what we think is and isn’t doable in terms of a timeframe to continue to play. Obviously, it’s conceivable that we’ll play beyond the time we were originally scheduled to conclude. How much longer we could do that is something we’re trying to determine.’’

The regular season had been scheduled to end April 4. If the season goes much beyond that, and the playoffs then go deep into the summer, games could start bumping into things like the league’s postseason awards, scheduled for June 17; and the draft, scheduled for June 26-27. While those events could end up being moved, Bettman told nhl.com that the 2020-21 season won’t be shortened, though it might not start on time.

The league also will need to figure out its revenues which are split 50-50 between the owners and players. The league’s revenue determines the , so if the league cannot resume play, it could affect the salary cap number for next season.

Bettman said the league meets twice a day to assess the situation, knowing that the situation with the pandemic is constantly evolving. Potential solutions that make sense now may make less sense in a few weeks, he said.

For now, players are not required to get tested for coronavirus and Bettman said he wasn't aware of anyone in the league who had tested positive. He said players are asked to self-quarantine in the city where the team they play for is based, he said. Players whose family is in North America, in a city other than where they play, are allowed to go be with their family.

Teams are not practicing while the league is on hiatus and players are not permitted to use team facilities, such as weight rooms or the practice rink. That will change when the league is advised that it is safe to allow players to do so.

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Rangers sign first-round pick K’Andre Miller

By Elio Velez

March 14, 2020 | 1:34am

The future looks brighter for the Rangers, even with the coronavirus currently halting this NHL season.

The Rangers signed 2018 first-round selection K’Andre Miller to a three- year entry-level contract on Friday according to the USA Today Network. The Wisconsin Badgers’ star recently completed his sophomore season where he scored seven goals and tallied 11 assists as a top-line defenseman.

Miller was acquired with the 22nd pick when the Rangers moved up in the NHL draft by trading a 26th and 48th pick to the Senators.

Miller’s contract will begin in the 2020-21 season, according to the report. His deal has an average annual value of $1.275 million with a cap hit of $925,000 as long as he’s in the NHL, according to Cap Friendly.

Discussions between the Rangers and Miller’s representation had taken place recent weeks once Wisconsin’s season ended in the Big Ten Tournament — an opening round sweep by Ohio State.

The 6-foot-4, 205-pound Miller is a smooth skater with the ability to patrol the blue line as a strong defensive presence. He is still relatively new to the position. The 22-year-old started as a forward in high school.

Miller adjusted quickly to being a defenseman after forgoing signing with the Rangers initially to attend the University of Wisconsin, where he had 17 assists and was twice named the Hockey Commissioners Association Rookie of the Month. Team USA selected Miller to play at the 2019 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships.

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Former first-round pick K'Andre Miller agrees to entry-level contract with NY Rangers

Vincent Z. Mercogliano, NHL WriterPublished 9:47 p.m. ET March 13, 2020 | Updated 9:57 p.m. ET March 13, 2020

The lights have temporarily gone out in NHL arenas across North America, but the business of hockey continues behind the scenes.

One day after the NHL announced it would pause its season due to "ongoing developments resulting from the coronavirus," the New York Rangers made an important signing.

K'Andre Miller, a defenseman who was selected No. 22 overall in the 2018 draft, agreed to an entry-level contract with the club on Friday, a source confirmed to the USA TODAY Network.

The 6-foot-4, 207-pounder just completed his sophomore season at the University of Wisconsin, where he accumulated 18 points (seven goals and 11 assists) while playing in 36 games. Once his collegiate season ended, it became increasingly clear he wanted to turn pro.

Miller's entry-level contract will begin in the 2020-21 season, with the plan to send him to AHL Hartford. The Rangers have a need for a left- handed defenseman following the trade of Brady Skjei to the Carolina Hurricanes last month, but they want to ease the St. Paul, Minn. native in.

According to Cap Friendly, the three-year contract is worth $3.825 million. It will pay Miller an average annual value of $1.275 million with a cap hit of $925,000, as long as he's in the NHL. He'll receive $70,000 per season while playing in the minors.

Bergen Record LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180845 New York Rangers the league went with points percentage and decided to let 10 teams in, the Rangers would just barely miss out as No. 11.

That doesn’t bode well, but perhaps there's an alternative. With the NHL putting its season on pause, here are 3 questions facing Maybe they draw a line at a certain points total — 75? — and say every the NY Rangers team above that gets a crack at playing in a condensed tournament for the wild card spots. Maybe they give every team a chance to play at least one more game, with the teams at the bottom of the standings facing Vincent Z. Mercogliano, NHL WriterPublished 11:24 a.m. ET March 13, some one-and-done scenarios. Or maybe they add more weight to 2020 | Updated 1:05 p.m. ET March 13, 2020 regulation wins, which is a category where Rangers rank seventh in the conference with 37.

If the Rangers do get to play again this season, they should have a To be clear: There are much bigger concerns right now than what complete lineup for the first time since before the car accident involving happens to the NHL, or specifically the New York Rangers. Igor Shesterkin and Pavel Buchnevich on Feb. 23. Both of those players The priority is health and safety, which is why leagues at all levels have have since returned, but the Rangers lost Chris Kreider to a fractured made difficult decisions to suspend seasons and cancel games. foot on Feb. 28. This pause on the season should give him a chance to fully heal. This is bigger than sports. From Jan. 7, which is when Shesterkin debuted, until Kreider got hurt, But sports fans — who I hope, along with everyone else, are taking the Rangers played their best hockey and went 16-6. precautions when it comes to hygiene and social interactions — have a lot of time on their hands now. And I'd be lying if I said I wasn't I'm sure they'd love to see how that team would fare in a playoff scenario, considering what's next for the Blueshirts. and I’m sure the league is going to debate several options. If it’s a straight 10-team tournament based on points percentage and the With all that in mind, here are three questions I'm pondering the day after Rangers miss out, they'll be kicking themselves for the overtime loss to the NHL put its 2019-20 season on pause... the Avalanche on Wednesday. (Or literally any other game where they missed out on a point.) Will the season continue? Will we see Henrik Lundqvist play another game with the Rangers? Mar 11, 2020; Denver, Colorado, USA; New York Rangers center Mika Zibanejad (93) reacts to his goal in the first period against the Colorado This is the most sentimental question on Rangers’ fans minds. Avalanche at the Pepsi Center. At the beginning of the new year, this seemed like a silly question to ask. The honest answer is that no one knows for sure. I’ve heard we should But it’s become more of a real possibility in the last two months. expect to suspension of play to last at least three or four weeks, and if the spread of the virus gets worse before it gets better — which is what Rangers coach David Quinn has repeatedly said that he has faith in all many experts believe — then it could last significantly longer. three of his goalies, but the actions speak much louder than the words. Shesterkin’s hot hand upon his arrival in New York dictated that he There is arguably more at stake for the NHL than there is for the NBA or should be the No. 1 option, but when Shesterkin missed two weeks with MLB. Baseball hasn't even begun its regular season yet and can simply a fractured rib, the writing on the wall became even clearer. push its start date back, while the basketball makes money through television deals and online partnerships that hockey simply can’t match. In the six games that Shesterkin missed, Lundqvist played only once. It The NHL needs the revenue that a full slate of playoff games — and fans wasn’t the even split we saw with him and Alexandar Georgiev in the first attending those games — will generate. Otherwise, the salary cap and half of the season. Quinn’s decisions made it obvious that Georgiev is escrow for the players could be impacted. the preferred No. 2 behind Shesterkin, which was reiterated again when Georgiev was selected to start on Wednesday. That’s plenty of motivation for the league to pick the season back up at some point, but how far are they willing to push it? Late June? July? Since the calendar turned to 2020, Lundqvist has started just five times, Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has said the NBA's season could including only one recent start in more than a month. That speaks possibly stretch into August. volumes.

Would the NHLPA entertain the idea of shrinking the offseason that Getting rid of Lundqvist’s $8.5 million contract for next season won’t be drastically? Would that mean the start of the 2020-21 season gets easy. A trade would be impossible to pull off without eating a portion of pushed back? It's all a guessing game at this point. that salary, and a buyout is far from ideal because it would cost $5.5 million and only save $3 million. For those reasons — and to a lesser It’s going to be very difficult to finish the regular season. The Rangers degree, the desire to let Lundqvist finish his career in a respectable way have 12 games remaining and there are other teams with as many as 14. — there’s still a decent chance he’s on the roster as Shesterkin’s backup It seems more likely that the league would go straight into the playoffs, next season. But it’s not the given it once seemed to be. but the silver lining is that they may be able to get creative and pique interest. The extended layoff, coupled with an exciting one-time-only Could the March 1 loss against the Philadelphia Flyers have been the format, could make fans hungrier than ever for playoff hockey and draw final appearance for Lundqvist in a Rangers' uniform? If the NHL season in more casual fans who are curious to see what it looks like. restarts with the Rangers missing the playoffs — or worse, is canceled altogether — that could be a sad, harsh reality. Does that mean letting 10 teams in per conference? More? Maybe some one-game elimination or short series for the wild card spots, similar to Bergen Record LOADED: 03.14.2020 what MLB has done recent years? Maybe something entirely outside of the box? There’s a lot to consider.

But first, they have to make sure they have the clearance to finish off the season. And it’ll be a while before we know that with any certainty.

If the season continues, what does it mean for the Rangers?

There’s been a lot of speculation that, if the NHL can’t find the time to finish off the regular season, they’ll use a points percentage to determine who makes the playoffs. You can figure those out by dividing the total points for each team by games played.

That wouldn’t be great news for the Rangers. If that happened, the Hurricanes (1.191) and the Islanders (1.176) would sit in the two wild card spots in the Eastern Conference, with the Blue Jackets (1.157) and the Panthers (1.130) also slightly ahead of the Rangers (1.129). Even if 1180846 New York Rangers

NHL suspending Rangers' Brendan Lemieux for hit in Avalanche game

By Colin Stephenson

Updated March 14, 2020 12:29 AM

A day after the NHL announced it was suspending its season, the league said Friday that it will be suspending Rangers forward Brendan Lemieux.

After a hearing Friday, the NHL’s Department of Player Safety suspended Lemieux for his hit on Colorado forward Joonas Donskoi during the Rangers’ 3-2 overtime loss to the Avalanche on Wednesday night.

The length of the suspension was not detailed, but in announcing its ruling, the league said “the precise parameters of the suspension will be determined and announced once resumption of play guidelines have been established.’’ Play has been suspended because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Lemieux was given an interference penalty with 2:52 remaining in regulation for hitting Donskoi well after he released a shot on goal that was saved by Rangers goaltender Alexandar Georgiev. An instant after Donskoi took the shot, Lemieux dropped him with a shoulder to the jaw. Donskoi lay on the ice for a moment, then left the game and did not return.

The Rangers tied the score on Pavel Buchnevich’s goal with 13 seconds left in overtime before Colorado won it with 2:10 remaining in the five- minute overtime.

The next day, hours before the NHL announced it would suspend the season, the league announced that Lemieux would have a hearing about the hit on Friday.

The suspension is just the latest downturn in what has been an up-and- down season for Lemieux. The 6-1, 213-pound wing, who reported late to training camp last fall after unsuccessfully trying to negotiate a multiyear contract, was expected to be a regular among the Rangers’ top nine forwards. But he has not produced as much as was expected of him, totaling six goals and 12 assists in 59 games.

His career-high 111 penalty minutes leads the team, and he has not scored a goal in his last 19 games.

Lemieux, who will turn 24 on Sunday, was acquired at the trade deadline last season in the Kevin Hayes deal. He missed time this season with a broken hand and has played mostly on the fourth line since his return. He did earn a promotion to the second line during Wednesday’s game.

Bettman’s season hopes

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman hopes the league will be able to resume play in some manner and be able to crown a 2019-20 champion.

“We’re doing all sorts of modeling, whether it’s completing the existing regular season as is, and then a full playoffs, or whether or not, based on time constraints, we’re going to have to make adjustments and do something different, creative,’’ Bettman told Canadian sports outlet Rogers SportsNet. “My hope and expectation is that we can finish the season in some form, award the Stanley Cup.’’

For now, players are not required to get tested for coronavirus and Bettman said he isn’t aware of anyone in the league who had tested positive. He said players have been asked to self-quarantine in the city where the team they play for is based, though they may return to family in North America.

Newsday LOADED: LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180847 New York Rangers

Commissioner Gary Bettman still hopes to salvage NHL season

By Colin Stephenson

Updated March 13, 2020 8:27 PM

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman is hoping that the league, which halted its season on Thursday due to the coronavirus crisis, will be able to resume play in some manner and be able to crown a 2019-20 champion.

“We’re doing all sorts of modeling, whether it’s completing the existing regular season as is, and then a full playoffs, or whether or not, based on time constraints, we’re going to have to make adjustments and do something different, creative,’’ Bettman told Canadian sports outlet Rogers SportsNet. “My hope and expectation is that we can finish the season in some form, award the Stanley Cup.’’

Bettman, who did several interviews with various media outlets Friday, said that as far as he is aware, no NHL player or league employee has yet tested positive for coronavirus.

Bettman said the NHL had been discussing the coronavirus pandemic for weeks, and he knew, as soon as the NBA suspended its season Wednesday night, after Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert tested positive for the virus, that the NHL would shut down as well. The league followed the NBA’s lead on Thursday, after Bettman held a conference call with the Board of Governors.

Bettman would not give a timetable for how long the league can remain dark before it is too late to resume the season.

“We’re looking at the calendar,’’ he told the league’s website, nhl.com. “We’re looking at what we think is and isn’t doable in terms of a timeframe to continue to play. Obviously, it’s conceivable that we’ll play beyond the time we were originally scheduled to conclude. How much longer we could do that is something we’re trying to determine.’’

The regular season had been scheduled to end April 4. If the season goes much beyond that, and the playoffs then go deep into the summer, games could start bumping into things like the league’s postseason awards, scheduled for June 17; and the draft, scheduled for June 26-27. While those events could end up being moved, Bettman told nhl.com that the 2020-21 season won’t be shortened, though it might not start on time.

The league also will need to figure out its revenues which are split 50-50 between the owners and players. The league’s revenue determines the salary cap, so if the league cannot resume play, it could affect the salary cap number for next season.

Bettman said the league meets twice a day to assess the situation, knowing that the situation with the pandemic is constantly evolving. Potential solutions that make sense now may make less sense in a few weeks, he said.

For now, players are not required to get tested for coronavirus and Bettman said he wasn't aware of anyone in the league who had tested positive. He said players are asked to self-quarantine in the city where the team they play for is based, he said. Players whose family is in North America, in a city other than where they play, are allowed to go be with their family.

Teams are not practicing while the league is on hiatus and players are not permitted to use team facilities, such as weight rooms or the practice rink. That will change when the league is advised that it is safe to allow players to do so.

Newsday LOADED: LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180848 New York Rangers What’s the next step? Well, a buyout, which I thought would have been impossible as recently as the last two months, is certainly on the table, especially if Lundqvist wants it. The Rangers didn’t want to treat their franchise player that way, but now? Well, that would give the goalie a If this was it for the 2019-20 Rangers, what does it mean for Henrik chunk of his money ($3 million of the remaining actual $4.5 million of real Lundqvist? money he’s still owed, spread over two years), would give the Rangers a chunk of cap savings (cap hit of $5.5 million, or a $3 million savings in

2020-21, and $1.5 million in ’21-22), and would make Lundqvist an By Rick Carpiniello Mar 13, 2020 unrestricted free agent able to go find a deal with another team.

The other possibility would be a trade, to which Lundqvist agrees, in which the Rangers eat half or more of that cap hit. Either way, the So what if this was it for the Rangers? What if their season ended Rangers are going to have some dead space on their salary cap next Wednesday night in Denver in overtime – not that it matters what the season, but less than the hit they’d take if Lundqvist stays around at $8.5 result happened to be. million.

Because let’s face it, with New York mayor Bill De Blasio speculating that This could be the end of several other players’ times as Rangers, it could be months before Madison Square Garden re-opens for anything including Marc Staal, who has one year left at $5.7 million and could be and the NHL suspending its season on Thursday, it’s fairly likely the another buyout candidate, or a trade possibility with the Rangers eating regular season has ended, even if there are whispers of resumption in money. Staal has been steady and important the last two seasons as the the summer months. Rangers brought along young defensemen Adam Fox, Ryan Lindgren and Staal’s partner Tony DeAngelo – who is going to get paid big-time If the NHL decided somehow to hold a Stanley Cup playoffs tournament this summer. More young defensemen are on the way and the Rangers sans any more regular season, the Rangers would be on the outside, just might not have room for the 33-year-old Staal, who is the second- unless the playoffs were expanded. most senior Ranger. It is certainly possible, though, that the Rangers and That’s all fantasy at this point. Almost certainly, the Rangers are done for coach David Quinn lean on him for one more season. 2019-20, with 12 games remaining on the schedule. The fourth-most senior Ranger, Jesper Fast, 28, is an unrestricted free Sad as that might be on its own, consider this: agent-to-be, though the Rangers chose to not trade him for picks at the deadline. Surely they’d like to keep him, and with his offensive stats The pandemic-induced suspension might have ended Henrik Lundqvist’s hardly screaming, perhaps Gorton can tie him up at a reasonable rate. Rangers career, if not his NHL tenure. Ryan Strome’s future is not certain here, despite his on-ice rapport with Boy, talk about not going out on your own terms. Artemi Panarin and his off-ice popularity with teammates and coaches. Lundqvist was on the bench as Alexandar Georgiev’s backup when Like DeAngelo, he’s a restricted free agent with arbitration rights, due a Wednesday night’s game ended in a 3-2 OT loss following a euphoric substantial raise on his $3.1 million salary. game-tying goal by Pavel Buchnevich with 13 seconds left in regulation. Even Georgiev will be getting a raise from his $792,500 bargain salary as Lundqvist was not in goal. He started one of the last 19 games, plus two an arbitration-eligible RFA. relief appearances; he started four of the last 30 games since Jan. 2 – And he’s the key to the whole Lundqvist situation. If another GM in the three lousy losses and a shutout win over Detroit. league should determine that Georgiev can be a top No. 1 goalie in the He became very clearly the Rangers’ third option in goal, behind No. 1 league and offers up, say, a first-rounder or top prospect(s), Gorton could rookie Igor Shesterkin and 24-year-old backup Georgiev. decide to make the deal, bring back Lundqvist as Shesterkin’s backup for the final year of his contract, and turn to Adam Huska or Tyler Wall to Lundqvist – who will waltz into the Hockey Hall of Fame and whose No. play behind Shesterkin in ’21-22. Gorton won’t give away Georgiev, 30 will go to the Garden’s spoked ceiling – chose to be part of the though, just as he did not give him away at the deadline. Rangers’ rebuild. Only now, more because of the two youngsters than the coronavirus, he may not be around to see it through. But that really is likely the only way Lundqvist’s Rangers career continues, I believe. This has been a tremendously difficult and disappointing season for the 38-year-old, who still has next year remaining (at an $8.5 million cap hit) For 15 years, the one voice you needed to hear at the end of the season on his contract. The only adjective he has chosen to use for it is – every one of which ended short of the Stanley Cup, a few of then “challenging.” There even was some belief at the trade deadline that he agonizingly close – was that of Lundqvist. might have waived his no-move clause, though we’re not sure he actually He would take the temperature of the team’s season and would so did, nor are we certain how close the Rangers may have come to trading eloquently put into words the disappointment, or the positives, and what him – or if they attempted at all. needed to happen the following year.

All of which means that Lundqvist’s relationship with the Rangers now Now we may not even get that. Lundqvist played his last game in that requires resolution. third period against the Devils and there was no locker room availability There is no way Lundqvist wants or deserves to go through anything like thereafter. this again. So this is how it ends, most likely. With silence, and so suddenly.

There is no way the Rangers want to go to training camp with three The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 goaltenders, no way they want to drag this impossible tripod into another season. They didn’t even want it to happen this season, but the Rangers and team president John Davidson and GM Jeff Gorton really had no choice.

Sheskertkin’s remarkable play forced everyone’s hand, and Georgiev’s strong play made Lundqvist’s role shrink further. In a playoff race for the first time in three seasons, when Lundqvist couldn’t channel his vintage King Henrik game, he was quickly – and rightly – pushed off the stage.

Surely it could have ended better. Perhaps with one more start, anyway, at the Garden. One more roaring ovation and chants of “Henrik, Henrik” even in a meaningless farewell. Now those chants he heard when he relieved Shesterkin in that mess against the Devils last weekend – Lundqvist entered in the third period, immediately stopped a breakaway and all four of the other shots he faced – will likely have to do. 1180849 Ottawa Senators

'Hang onto your Sens tickets,' says team

BRUCE DEACHMAN Updated: March 13, 2020

The Ottawa Senators are urging fans with tickets to NHL games that have been postponed due to the novel coronavirus outbreak to hang onto their tickets. “Your ticket(s) remain valid,” the club said in a Friday announcement. “Please hold on to your ticket(s) as they will be applied to rescheduled games once the season has resumed.”

The NHL announced the postponement of the 2019-20 season on Thursday, in reaction to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

Ottawa Citizen LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180850 Ottawa Senators Life happens fast. Four days later, Anderson was talking about playing in the last game before the NHL suspended action, perhaps even the final game of his career.

KEN'S DIARY: The wild week that was while on the road in California Onward to Anaheim I went, with Sunday an off day for the Senators. I with the Senators walked around the outside of Disneyland, watching the families descend on the happiest place on Earth, wearing Mickey hats and Cinderella dresses, but it wasn’t overly busy. As with the empty hotel rooms in San Jose, traffic was down significantly in Anaheim. (On Thursday, word Ken Warren came down that Disney was shutting down completely.) Published:March 13, 2020 On late Sunday, officials cancelled the PNB Paribus Tennis tournament Updated:March 13, 2020 5:44 PM EDT — a colossal event, only one stop below the Grand Slams — two hours east of Anaheim in Indian Wells.

As the Senators returned to practice on Monday and faced off against the So, here I am, back home in Ottawa on Friday the 13th, self-isolated (no Ducks on Tuesday, the governor of Ohio was weighing in, saying that all symptoms) as per company policy, after spending a work week in mass public gatherings in his state should be cancelled. The Columbus California. Blue Jackets countered by saying the games would go on as scheduled.

The assignment, similar to countless other road trips over the past 25 “It would be different,” Senators winger Bobby Ryan said. “It’s hard to years, was to follow the Ottawa Senators for their games against the San even comment because I don’t know what the reaction would be. It would Jose Sharks, Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings, and the practices be a shame for it to get that far.” along the way. Again, at that point, the talk was about the potential of games without Oh, yes, all of that does seem rather trivial at this point — fans, not the outright suspension of games. Somewhere in there, LeBron understandably, both the NHL and NBA are now on hiatus — considering changed his tune. Away from the ice, up in Oakland, an hour north of the novel coronavirus world we’re now living in. San Jose, the Grand Princess cruise ship was being brought to shore. The ship, with 21 confirmed coronavirus cases, had been in limbo since Full disclosure here, just so there’s no confusion: Postmedia doesn’t March 4. travel with the players and coaches on the team’s charter flights, an arrangement that ended — much to my pleasure and support because of After playing the Ducks, the Senators left Anaheim for Los Angeles and the independence it provides — midway through the 2018-19 season. their game against the Kings on Wednesday. I made the one-hour drive north Wednesday morning. The Blue Jackets and Sharks had gone full What follows is a diary, of sorts, on the week that was in California, a circle on their previous positions, saying they would now play games week that took crazy, unexpected turns inside and outside of the arenas without fans. Officials of the NCAA’s March Madness made the stunning that have now become silent, while the stock markets plunged into announcement that the tournament would be played without fans. chaos. Walking through L.A. Live, the massive entertainment complex At the outset, there was concern about flying into San Francisco, an hour surrounding the Staples Center before the Kings-Senators game, there north of San Jose, on March 6. Upon landing, it was clear the situation was limited action. wasn’t normal. The good: there was a lineup at the sink to wash hands. Then came the wild Wednesday night, where the crisis really seemed to It was not uncommon to see fellow travellers wearing surgical masks, kick in. pushing elevator buttons with their elbows or shoulders. It was hard not to give in to panic. I realized my hand was resting on an escalator railing During the warmup before the Senators-Kings, news came out about the and lifted it in alarm. sudden postponement of the Utah Jazz-Oklahoma City NBA game because Gobert (we’ll save his cavalier attitude toward containing the A day earlier, Santa Clara health officials suggested all events with large virus for another day) had tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The crowds in the San Jose area should be postponed out of concern about NBA followed soon after with the official announcement that it had spreading the virus. The hotel and restaurant business had already felt a suspended the season. U.S. President Donald Trump delivered his major impact. rambling public address that did little to restore calm. Actor Tom Hanks “We are getting cancellations left and right,” Tony Andrade, assistant announced that he and his wife had contracted the virus. general manager of the AC Marriott hotel, told me. “People are being told The NHL put off an official decision until Thursday. not to travel. There was a Facebook event and a Blackberry conference that have been cancelled. People are scared of what’s going on because “All we can do is be professionals and be ready to play,” Senators coach there’s no vaccine to treat it.” D.J. Smith said after the game. “We will listen to anything the league tells us to do.” The Sharks, however, opted to go ahead with a March 5 game against Minnesota Wild, the Senators game on March 7 and a contest against The suspension of the NHL season was at hand. It was only a matter of the Colorado Avalanche on March 8, issuing a statement that “enhanced time. Musing with Le Droit’s Marc Brassard about what was about to cleaning procedures” had been implemented in the SAP Center. come over a post-game beer, the TV above us was playing the R.E.M. video, It’s the End of the World As We Know It. That was followed by the The NHL also initiated a new policy on March 7, keeping reporters out of Police hit, Don’t Stand So Close To Me. dressing rooms. The idea was to separate media from players, but there was confusion. What kind of barrier? Table? Rope? Lectern? Three feet It was funny, sad and ironic all at the same time. apart? Five feet apart? In at least one case in the NHL, a line was literally drawn in the ground. Later, though, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman The official word came down Thursday morning, Los Angeles time. said it wasn’t a blanket policy, that individual teams could choose to allow Thursday afternoon, I was on a flight home. So, too, were the Senators. reporters into dressing rooms. The Senators opted to keep reporters out. Ottawa Sun LOADED: 03.14.2020 Over in the NBA, this type of setup would eventually make Rudy Gobert a household name of shame.

On the possibility of NBA games being played without fans, star LeBron James said he wouldn’t play in that situation. After the Senators’ win in San Jose, Senators goaltender Craig Anderson said it might be intriguing.

“Five years from now when you talk about a game, you’re not going to talk about the San Jose game that you won 2-1 in overtime. You’re talking about the game there were no fans there.” 1180851 Ottawa Senators Daly also told Rishaug there won’t be any mandatory testing of players “unless they start to exhibit symptoms.”

Ideally, the league would like to finish the season and then hold the GARRIOCH: Ottawa Senators instructed to keep their distance as NHL playoffs. Naturally, that’s all up in the air at the moment and there are pause gets underway several decisions to be made when — and if — play resumes this season.

In the case of the Senators, the club is still trying to determine its position Bruce Garrioch in the draft lottery. The club is ranked No. 30, in front of only the Detroit Red Wings in the standings, and also holds the top selection of the 29th- Published:March 13, 2020 ranked San Jose Sharks. Right now, the Senators would hold a Updated:March 13, 2020 4:51 PM EDT combined 25 per cent chance of winning the lottery, which is currently scheduled for April 9 at 8 p.m. in Secaucus, N.J.

Commissioner Gary Bettman told NHL.com Friday the league wants to Stay safe and stay away from the rink. finish the year, but isn’t in any position to predict when that may happen. The NBA has told fans it will be out at least 30 days. Those were the instructions to the Ottawa Senators and all 31 teams received from the NHL as the pause to the season continued into the “Nobody knows how long the hiatus may be,” Bettman said. “Nobody, weekend because of the novel coronavirus threat. even the medical community, can predict it with certainty. And what we’re doing is, we’re modelling every conceivable alternative so that when it’s After having their five-game road trip cut short Thursday and seeing their appropriate to go back to work, we will know what our options are.” Air Canada charter re-routed home from Los Angeles without stops in Chicago on Friday and St. Louis on Sunday, the Senators are initially Ottawa Sun LOADED: 03.14.2020 being told not to come to the until there are clear directives put in place by the league on the next steps in what’s an unprecedented time for the game.

The Senators were scheduled to return home to face Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers on Wednesday night.

In an email to TSN Friday morning, deputy commissioner Bill Daly indicated that, at this point, one instruction to the players is to remain in their current NHL cities until a plan is devised on the next steps unless they’re separated from their families. He wants the players to have a common-sense approach.

“The general expectation is that players will remain in the club’s home cities, absent unusual circumstances,” Daly told TSN’s Ryan Rishaug. “Obviously, where a player is separated from his family because his club city residence is only temporary at this point, those players should be permitted to go home in this initial phase of the pause period.”

That means veteran goaltender Craig Anderson can likely return to Florida to be with wife Nicholle and the couple’s two children. They don’t live here on a full-time basis and the league hasn’t decided when players will be allowed to resume skating. He wouldn’t be alone on that front, and you have to expect several players will want to vacate the city while waiting to see what happens.

The league and the NHL Players’ Association are trying to determine the next steps to take because the reality is this is a fluid situation. The Senators still have 11 games remaining on their schedule — seven on the road and four at home — and there’s no timetable on when the world will return to normal because nobody can predict how this is all going to unfold.

Initially, the players were told to try to stay in shape because the league does plan to resume its schedule and hold the Stanley Cup playoffs. Teams are being asked to secure dates for the post-season. No, there won’t be any concerns about that in Ottawa, but the club does need to have the building available to play what’s left of its home schedule.

Right now, there aren’t any informal workouts or skates planned, but Daly does see that happening down the road and those details need to be worked out.

“We envision there coming a time where we transition direction from stay at home to opening club facilities to players to work out and to skate on a voluntary basis in small groups, similar to what we generally see prior to the beginning of team training camps,” Daly said. “At this point, I’m not in a position to say when that will be. We will see how the next week or so plays out.”

The possibility exists that players could organize skates themselves, like Ottawa-area players do at the in Kanata in the summer, but the league doesn’t want that happening immediately because it sounds like the players may not be covered by insurance if they get hurt.

“We are recommending against informal skates during this initial phase of the pause,” said Daly. “Once we move into the next phase and (the) player is training for the resumption of play, his activities will be subject to protections afforded in his (standard players contract).” 1180852 Philadelphia Flyers resolution and, hopefully, over the next couple of months all the virus stuff resolves itself and everybody can keep their jobs. But, it’s going to take CEOs and employees working together to make that happen.”

Wells Fargo Center will pay hourly arena workers for at least two weeks Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 03.14.2020 for games missed because of coronavirus outbreak

by EJ Smith,

With the coronavirus pandemic halting nearly every sporting event originally scheduled for the next few weeks, arena workers across the country suddenly find themselves out of work.

NBA figures like Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, and star players Giannis Anetokounmpo, Zion Williamson, and Kevin Love have pledged money to counteract the losses some are facing. NBA commissioner Adam Silver said the league’s hiatus would last “at least 30 days" during an interview Thursday on TNT. The league suspended play shortly after Utah center Rudy Gobert tested positive for the coronavirus, leading to the cancellation of the Jazz’s game at Oklahoma City on Wednesday.

Comcast Spectacor, the owner of the Wells Fargo Center, will continue paying arena employees and full-time employees at least for the next two weeks, according to a statement by Valerie Camillo, the company’s president of business operations.

Camillo’s release says employees have been asked to work from home moving forward with all full-time employees being paid for their work. Hourly workers will be paid for the time they were originally scheduled to work over the next two weeks, the statement said.

“All game-day employees who were originally scheduled to work Flyers, 76ers and Wings games that have now been postponed between March 14 [and March] 31 will be paid for their scheduled hours, despite those games not taking place,” Camillo said.

During the 76ers’ and Flyers’ inactivity, Sixers owners and managing partners Josh Harris and David Blitzer, who also own the New Jersey Devils, pledged to pay hourly and event staff at the Devils’ home arena, according to an NHL Network report.

A Sixers official told The Inquirer that Harris and Blitzer have committed to paying their hourly and game-night 76ers staff for postponed games. Via email, Harris and Blitzer reiterated that their employees are “the heartbeat of the organization” and that they felt it was “important to band together and lift each other up during times like this.”

Love, the veteran Cavaliers forward, jump-started the support effort Thursday, pledging $100,000 to aid workers at Cleveland’s Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse while 29 NBA arenas close their doors for the time being. He told ESPN he hopes his donation leads to others contributing to the cause. The Cavs and arena management issued a joint statement saying they are working on “a compensation plan to continue paying our event staff and hourly workforce that is impacted with the changes to our regular event schedule.”

Williamson, the ’ rookie sensation, and Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee’s reigning NBA MVP, followed suit with similar pledges for the workers in their home arenas.

In the NHL, Florida Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky’s donation of $100,000 to part-time workers at the Panthers’ arena was followed by donations by his teammates and a pledge from ownership.

Cuban said Friday he, too, would be paying American Airlines Center staff during the hiatus.

“It was one of the first things that crossed my mind, in that, when we postponed games, those folks who do all the jobs you mentioned aren’t going to get paid,” he said in an interview with Fox News. “People who are working by the hour aren’t going to get paid. So, we put together a program where we’re going to pay them as if those games took place. We would have had a game against the coming up tomorrow, and we’ll pay them as if that game happened.”

Cuban encouraged other NBA owners to follow suit in supporting arena staff.

“And, I say the same thing to hourly workers,” he said. “Be cognizant of the circumstances of your company. You know, if CEOs and even small entrepreneurs can work together with their employees, you can find a 1180853 Philadelphia Flyers Would the league bag the rest of the regular season — the Flyers have 13 games left — and pick the playoff teams based on where they stood when the season was suspended indefinitely Thursday?

Passionate Flyers fans spoke from the heart, but NHL had to stop That makes the most sense. If not, the Stanley Cup playoffs could run season | Sam Carchidi into deep July, or later, and compete with baseball and, most likely, summer-vacation plans already booked by thousands of season-ticket holders. by Sam Carchidi, If the teams were seeded by points percentage — which would be the most fair way to do it because of the disparity in games played — this is

how the first-round matchups would look: The Flyers were the NHL’s hottest team, winners of nine of their last 10 Eastern Conference games, and on pace for 106 points. They have topped that total just once in the last 33 seasons. Boston (.714) vs. Islanders (.588)

They have come together as a true team, displaying a relentless style at Washington (.652) vs. Carolina (.596) both ends of the ice and great chemistry. Tampa Bay (.657) vs. Toronto (.579) They have a young goaltender, Carter Hart, poised to make his first appearance in the Stanley Cup playoffs. They have all four lines clicking, Flyers (.645) vs. Pittsburgh (.623) a nice blend of youth and veterans, and, thanks to several moves made Injury-riddled Columbus (.579), which has played gallantly, would be by general manager , a legitimate chance to win their first edged by the Isles for the final wild-card spot. Cup since 1975. Western Conference Well, it was fun while it lasted. More fun, in fact, than any other Flyers team since 2009-10, the season Danny Briere and his teammates made St. Louis (.662) vs. Calgary (.564) an unforgettable run to the Finals. Vegas (.606) vs. Nashville (.565) As you know, this season came to a screeching halt Thursday because of the coronavirus outbreak. The NHL said the season had taken a Colorado (.657) vs. Dallas (.594) “pause,” and it tried to make everyone feel comfortable that games will, Edmonton (.585) vs. Vancouver (.565) indeed, restart in the near future. Winnipeg (.563) would be edged out of the final wild-card spot by Flyers right winger Jake Voracek and the Bruins' Patrice Bergeron battled Calgary. for the puck during the third period of Tuesday's game at the Wells Fargo Center. The Bruins ended the Flyers' nine-game winning streak, 2-0. It Not tainted was the Flyers' last game before the season was suspended Thursday. The winner should not feel like a tainted champion. Heck, teams this Flyers right winger Jake Voracek and the Bruins' Patrice Bergeron battled season have played between 68 and 71 regular-season games, which is for the puck during the third period of Tuesday's game at the Wells Fargo more than in 2012-13 and 1994-95 (48-game, lockout-shortened Center. The Bruins ended the Flyers' nine-game winning streak, 2-0. It seasons). Teams played just 70 games a season from 1949-50 to 1966- was the Flyers' last game before the season was suspended Thursday. 67, and in the first half of the 20th century, they played 60-, 50- and 48- game seasons — and sometimes much fewer than those totals. There are no guarantees, and one has to wonder if the season does resume, would the Flyers’ momentum be stunted? So if the season resumes, the champion — whether it be the Bruins, Blues, Capitals, Lightning, Flyers, Penguins, Avalanche, or some long The games, of course, are secondary to keeping people healthy. Credit shot — should not feel it was undeserved. the league for suspending the season, closing arenas, and trying to prevent the coronavirus from spreading. It was the correct thing to do, Here’s hoping, most important, that the coronavirus gets under control. without question. Second, here’s hoping the Flyers, under their new coach, Alain No one knows, however, if the league will be back in two weeks, two Vigneault, get a chance to finish what they started. This team has made months, or in October, when the 2020-21 season is scheduled to start. hockey relevant again in Philadelphia. That was never more evident than in a poll I ran on Twitter, asking fans, before the NHL made its decision, if No one knows if fans will be allowed in arenas if the league does decide the season should be suspended. to return. Undoubtedly affected by the Flyers’ recent run, 55% of the nearly 5,000 No one knows if someone connected to the NHL — players, front-office responders said no. personnel, arena workers, or media members — will come down with the coronavirus and cause the league’s “pause” to be extended. They were voting with their hearts.

Eventually, that might mean there will be no Stanley Cup champion Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 03.14.2020 crowned for the just the third time since 1893.

The first time was in 1919 because of the Spanish flu outbreak, which caused an estimated 50 million deaths worldwide and 675,000 in the United States, and the second time was when the season was called off in 2005 because of a lockout.

In 1919, the Stanley Cup Final was tied after five games (2-2-1) between the Montreal Canadiens and the Seattle Metropolitans. Officials then canceled the Final after numerous players and coaches were stricken with the flu. Montreal defenseman Joe Hall, who later was named to the Hall of Fame, died from complications from the illness.

Best-case scenario

Fast-forward to 2020, and let’s take a look at the best-case scenario: The virus seems under control, sicknesses are drastically reduced, and the league opens its practice facilities on, say, April 1, and cancels the rest of the regular season. That would give teams a week of practice before starting the Stanley Cup playoffs on April 8, the date they were originally scheduled to begin. 1180854 Philadelphia Flyers

As coronavirus concerns put 2019-20 NHL regular season on pause, Flyers send message to their fans

By Jordan Hall March 13, 2020 7:00 PM

Flyers fans are truly unique.

They've tailgated a Wednesday night rookie game in the preseason.

They've flooded Flyers Skate Zone to watch a Saturday morning practice or development camp in the summer.

You really can't question their passion or rabidness.

Every season means something to them, but 2019-20 has been particularly enjoyable for the fans. They've watched a resurgence after a tumultuous 2018-19 season, which resulted in organizational change. This season, the Flyers are not only looking like a playoff team again, but they've also climbed into position to win the Metropolitan Division.

That push, however, is on hold. On the first full day of the NHL hiatus amid the rising concerns of the coronavirus outbreak, the Flyers delivered a message to their fans, via Twitter.

There is no timeframe for when the season will resume. Knowing Flyers fans, they'll be ready for whenever hockey returns to South Philly.

Until then ...

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180855 Philadelphia Flyers Finally, I texted my cousin Danny, one of the biggest Philly sports fans I know, asking him what he planned to do with all of his new-found free time with no games on TV?

How hardcore Philly sports fans are coping with no games “Wash my hands,” he responded.

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 03.14.2020

By Enrico Campitelli March 13, 2020 11:09 AM

The seriousness of the coronavirus pandemic has become clear. The NBA, NHL, and MLB have all announced that games will be put on hold for the foreseeable future.

By all accounts of medical professionals, these appear to be wise decisions by the leagues. There's no arguing that.

But there's also no arguing that this changes the daily lives -- no matter how inconsequential -- of hardcore sports fans quite a bit. Game viewing is an important part of many Philadelphians lives, so we reached out to some of the biggest fans we know here in Philly to see how they plan to fill those voids.

The timing of games being suspended was particularly tough for Flyers fans who were riding one of the team's hottest streaks in recent memory.

"Us Flyers fans were, excuse me for this, Flying high recently," Fran (who some of you may know from his mildly funny @FlyGoalScoredBy Twitter account) told us.

"Charts were showing us as the favorites to win the Cup. Charts! Those things NEVER give us good news. We had goalies! When have we everrrrrr had goalies?"

It's true. I can't even remember any goalies, to be honest.

Fran suggested a three-pronged approach to filling the orange game-day void: 1) Cold ones 2) HockeyFights.com 3) Search eBay for weird Flyers gear.

"Search HockeyFights.com for your Berube’s and Brown’s and Cote’s and heck if you’re feeling wild, your Mike Richards’. I could watch Richie TKO Dubinsky from here until we die," he said. "And you can get LOST on eBay looking at knock off Flyers gear. Need a wierd Flyers clock? Done!"

Michael Robertson, a huge Phillies fan that runs a popular Twitter account dedicated to radio broadcasters Scott Franzke and Larry Andersen, says the lack of games will be a challenge.

“Quitting cold turkey is rough,” he said.

In addition to catching up on Netflix, reading, etc. — “you know, the cultured stuff that gets punted because you have to watch Tommy Hunter pitch” — Robertson plans to get his Phillies fill from the archives.

“There will be plenty of old Phillies games on YouTube that I'll be throwing on the laptop.”

Robertson did point to one potential silver lining.

“If Opening Day only gets pushed back two weeks, it's not too bad. I don't think I've ever been to an opener that was above 40-degrees and dry. But I'm starting to think I'm not going to get a lot of use of the Ballpark Pass.”

The usually-humorous Sixers fan we talked to, @Killakow, also rationalized a pretty specific “best case” for how the future could play out for Sixers fans.

“Best case scenario is that most of the United States self-quarantines and practices social distancing rather seriously and that, after this first month, things are stable enough that sporting events can resume,” Mr. Kow said.

“If that were to happen, this might be a blessing for the Sixers for two reasons: First, it allows the team (especially Ben Simmons) extra time to get healthy. Second, if the NBA moves to a condensed playoff schedule and makes each series best of five instead of best of seven, then the Sixers will probably have a better shot at advancing deeper into the playoffs. Failing all of that, the best case would be for this season to be immediately forgotten and considered to be a ‘gas leak year’ like season 4 of ‘Community’.” 1180856 Philadelphia Flyers Team and arena owners have also vowed to pay employees during the stoppage like Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban and 76ers and New Jersey Devils owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer, who own Newark’s Prudential Center. Comcast Spectacor to pay game-day employees during COVID-19 stoppage this month Courier-Post LOADED: 03.14.2020

Dave Isaac, NHL WriterPublished 3:30 p.m. ET March 13, 2020

Employees clean the seating area after Wednesday's game between the 76ers and Detroit Pistons at Wells Fargo Center.

When the sports world stopped this week due to what health officials have called a global pandemic of COVID-19 coronavirus, there was a trickle-down effect.

Sure, athletes are now asked to not practice with teammates and instead stay home and self-quarantine. No more highlight reel stars. No more box scores.

For some, no job to go to, either.

Wells Fargo Center shut its doors Thursday for what it called “an extensive cleaning and sanitization.” Full-time employees of the building were asked to work from home Friday. Others, who work part-time, will be paid for the shifts they will now not work as the National Basketball Association, National Hockey League and National Lacrosse League all suspended their seasons.

A memo sent to Comcast Spectacor employees was obtained by the Courier Post and in it, Valerie Camillo, the president of business operations for the Flyers and Wells Fargo Center gave some good news.

“All game-day employees who were originally scheduled to work Flyers, 76ers and Wings games that have now been postponed between March 14 - 31 will be paid for their scheduled hours, despite those games not taking place,” the memo said.

“You are the team that makes our operation run seamlessly on a day-to- day basis and we want to make sure you have a sense of financial security and value during these challenging times.

“We appreciate everything you do for our organization and ask that you now prioritize staying healthy and taking care of yourself and loved ones.”

Camillo also noted that full-time Comcast Spectacor employees “will continue to be paid, regardless of their ability to fully operate in a work from home environment.”

Arena workers may be some of those hit the hardest in the shutdown of virtually every professional or collegiate sporting event in North America. Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love posted on Twitter and Instagram Thursday that he would donate $100,000 to help pay arena workers at Cleveland’s Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.

View this post on Instagram

Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. And the fear and anxiety resulting from the recent outbreak of COVID-19 can be extremely overwhelming. Through the game of basketball, we've been able to address major issues and stand together as a progressive league that cares about the players, the fans, and the communities where we work. I'm concerned about the level of anxiety that everyone is feeling and that is why I'm committing $100,000 through the @KevinLoveFund in support of the @Cavs arena and support staff that had a sudden life shift due to the suspension of the NBA season. I hope that during this time of crisis, others will join me in supporting our communities. Pandemics are not just a medical phenomenon. They affect individuals and society on so many levels, with stigma and xenophobia being just two aspects of the impact of a pandemic outbreak. It's important to know that those with a mental illness may be vulnerable to the effects of widespread panic and threat. Be kind to one another. Be understanding of their fears, regardless if you don't feel the same. Be safe and make informed decisions during this time. And I encourage everyone to take care of themselves and to reach out to others in need -- whether that means supporting your local charities that are canceling events, or checking in on your colleagues and family.

A post shared by Kevin Love (@kevinlove) on Mar 12, 2020 at 2:36pm PDT 1180857 Philadelphia Flyers

No positive coronavirus tests for any NHL players, says Gary Bettman

Updated Mar 13, 2020; Posted Mar 13, 2020

By Chris Ryan

The NHL suspended its regular season on Thursday in response to the coronavirus outbreak, joining multiple pro sports leagues around the country and the world to make similar decisions.

While the NBA made that call after Utah Jazz forward Rudy Gobert tested positive for the coronavirus, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said during an interview with CNBC on Thursday that he was unaware of any NHL players testing positive.

“We’ve sent everybody home and we’ve asked them to self-quarantine for the time being,” Bettman said. “And we’re going to monitor the evolution of the coronavirus.”

Bettman said the NHL had been watching the situation develop for weeks, and the events around the sports world during the past 48 hours prompted him to arrive at the decision to pause the schedule on Wednesday night. The official announcement was made on Thursday after Bettman spoke with owners and the NHL Board of Governors.

Bettman didn’t want to be put in the same position as the NBA, where the league needed to cancel a game moments before tip-off.

“When the NBA had a positive test and they had to cancel a game at that moment, it was clear to me and through all of our calculus, we knew that once a player tested positive, it would be a game changer," Bettman said. “I decided it was time to get ahead of it and not wait for one of our players to get tested.”

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Bettman said he doesn’t have a timetable for when the league could resume play, but he remains optimistic that the NHL can complete its season. He also said he didn’t know how far into the summer the NHL would be able to push games, if that situation presented itself.

“I’m a little hesitant to use the word suspension because our hope and our expectation is when things get back to normal and it’s safe and it’s prudent, we can go back and resume the season, and ultimately have the Stanley Cup awarded,” Bettman said.

“My hope is at some point we will get back to some normalcy. That’s not just my hope for the NHL and sports it’s my hope for the country.”

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Penguins to pay PPG Paints Arena employees during stoppage

SETH RORABAUGH | Friday, March 13, 2020 6:33 p.m.

The Pittsburgh Penguins announced they will pay full- and part-time arena and service employees at PPG Paints Arena during the NHL’s pause in play as a precaution to coronavirus.

According to the team, funding for the stoppage will come from Penguins players, the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation and the Foundation.

“The ushers, ticket takers, concession workers, cleaning staff and other arena workers are the backbone of a Penguins hockey game at PPG Paints Arena, and a big part of the Penguins’ family,” team president and CEO said in a statement issued by the organization. “Our owners, Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle, and our players, led by Sidney Crosby, thought it was essential to help them through this. We have come together to ensure that they will not lose pay because of the pause in our season.”

At the time of the NHL’s decision to pause the season, the Penguins had six home games remaining in their regular-season schedule.

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Mark Madden: This sports shutdown stinks, but greed will bring the games back

MARK MADDEN | Friday, March 13, 2020 1:13 p.m.

I’m not as worried about no sports as I am about no toilet paper. You can’t even get it on Amazon. You’d think the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor. We might need rationing.

I got nine rolls. May God have mercy on my soul. Or, if I have to use paper towels, may God have mercy on … something more tangible. (This is where the decline of the newspaper industry really hits home.)

As for sports, the shutdown stinks.

I keep getting told by virtue-signalers that sports aren’t that important. (If you work in my profession and say that, you’re in the wrong job.) But sports are important, not least to those who make their living on sports’ fringes and have their income cut off. What about senior basketball players who lost their last hurrah when March Madness got canceled? Dayton and San Diego State might never again have men’s basketball teams that good. Sports inspire passion and allow those who don’t otherwise have much to live vicariously.

Guilty as charged.

The potentially disastrous nature of the covid-19 situation duly noted, I want sports back. Sports are, indeed, important. (I especially need the Premier League to resume and six more points. That’s most critical of all. #LFC #YNWA.)

During the nonstop torrent of postponements and cancellations that began Wednesday, I thought all of sports’ current seasons were done. See you next year.

But, after reflecting, I no longer think that. Sports will resume in a month, or six weeks, and for one reason: greed.

Everything that got canceled either had a finite and present time frame, like March Madness, or was painfully minor-league. (The XFL doubled up.) Some of the events aborted will lose less money by not existing. Those decisions were easy.

But the big-time sports leagues lose millions every day they’re on hiatus. They can get some of that money back via resumption but none through cancellation.

If covid-19 doesn’t run absolutely rampant in the next month and flattens out at all, the NHL and NBA will resume, and MLB will start after a delay. Bet that. Only a dramatically rising body count will stop it, and I don’t say that at all flippantly.

This is America. Money talks, and it shouts down safety.

Things have to be just a little safer, not a lot safer. A “little safer” can be inflated for appearance’s sake. Maybe the arenas and stadiums will be empty for a bit, but sports will resume. (Get that TV money.) Greed could be derailed by an epidemic of covid-19 cases among athletes, especially if it spreads to their families. But the leagues and teams figure to look after their athletes with great care in the interim.

Greed is pretty close to undefeated. Greed is always a good bet. Sports will be back within four to six weeks. If sports aren’t, then the world might have problems that sports can’t help us forget about.

The NHL told its teams to make sure they have ice available through the end of July. Can you skate on concrete? In most NHL rinks, the ice is bad by May.

Tribune Review LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180860 Pittsburgh Penguins The NHL has recommended against informal skates such as those players conduct in the days leading to training camp or even traveling independently during this time.

There are more questions than answers for the NHL right now Even a few days off of skates can have an adverse impact on a player’s conditioning. In the event of a delay lasting weeks or months, one would imagine a “mini-training camp” for a few days would be in order before resuming play. SETH RORABAUGH | Friday, March 13, 2020 12:29 p.m. This is an unprecedented situation for the entire NHL as well as sports in

general. Conor Sheary really didn’t know what to say. Answers to these questions and many others could come by the hour, To be clear, the reporters on the other side of the rope weren’t quite sure but the questions might change just as quickly. what to ask. Tribune Review LOADED: 03.14.2020 On Tuesday, before their most recent and possibly final — for a while at least — game in Newark, N.J., the Pittsburgh Penguins’ forward was asked a clumsy question: What did he make of hockey and sports overall being impacted by coronavirus?

“It’s a little scary to think that it seems like it’s inching a little closer to affecting more people around here,” Sheary said. “But I think people are taking the right steps, and you’re getting the right information from the right people. If everyone uses that to their advantage, I think we’ll be all right.”

If changes were happening by inches Tuesday, they occurred by parsecs Thursday when the NHL suspended play indefinitely.

The league was careful with the vocabulary it used when a statement from commissioner Gary Bettman was issued after the decision.

Bettman said the “National Hockey League will pause the 2019-20 season.”

If and when that pause is lifted, there are plenty of questions of how the NHL will resume. And there are likely not many answers at this point.

Here are a few of most common or pressing:

The schedule

Given the compacted nature of the NHL’s schedule, especially in March and April, delaying or rescheduling even one game is a considerable challenge. Doing so for days, weeks or months is all that more daunting.

Add in the fact 11 NHL teams share arenas with NBA teams — who also are pausing play — and finding open dates to squeeze in all those games is a headache-inducing task.

If there’s a “convenient” time to have a pandemic during the NHL’s season, it’s now because there are very few nonconference games remaining on the schedule, and traveling across the continent is less of a factor.

In the event things are “paused” into the summer, is there a date of no return? The NHL Draft is scheduled for June 26-27. And pending free agents’ contracts expire July 1.

The NHL can pause things for only so long before they have to be outright canceled.

The salary cap

Perhaps the most complicated question is how it relates to the NHL’s finances, specifically with the salary cap.

Each NHL players’ contract is divided over the number days in the NHL’s regular-season calendar, provided they are on the NHL roster.

How does a pause of one day or 30 days or beyond impact that? No one seems to know, and it appears the NHL and NHL Players Association still are working that out.

A delay in this season has ramifications on next season with regards to the cap, as well. The league’s cap is directly tied to league revenues from the prior season.

So if the league cancels games or even plays without fans in attendance, that could lower the cap for the 2020-21 season. The NHL relies on ticket revenue far more than the NBA, MLB or the NFL.

Training

What are the players allowed to do during this pause? Not much, at least in groups. 1180861 Pittsburgh Penguins

Sidney Crosby, Penguins organization announce plan to pay PPG Paints Arena workers

MATT VENSEL

MAR 13, 2020 6:35 PM

The Penguins on Friday announced a plan to pay full-time and part-time arena and service employees at PPG Paints Arena who stood to lose income after the NHL suspended its season, denying them a chance to work home games.

The Penguins in a press release said the funding will come from Penguins players, the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation and the Mario Lemieux Foundation.

“The ushers, ticket takers, concession workers, cleaning staff and other arena workers are the backbone of a Penguins hockey game at PPG Paints Arena, and a big part of the Penguins’ family,” CEO and team president David Morehouse said. “Our owners, Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle, and our players, led by Sidney Crosby, thought it was essential to help them through this.

“We have come together to ensure that they will not lose pay because of the pause in our season.”

Goals used by the NHL hockey club Nashville Predators are stored in a hallway in Bridgestone Arena, Thursday, March 12, 2020, in Nashville, Tenn. The NHL announced Thursday it is suspending its season indefinitely in response to the coronavirus.

The NHL announced on Thursday that the season was suspended due to the threat of the COVID-19. The league hopes to resume the season, but there is no timetable on when that could potentially occur.

Prior to the league going on hiatus, the Penguins were scheduled to play six more regular-season games at PPG Paints Arena, plus potential playoff games.

The Penguins were one of several NHL teams to announce Friday that they were taking steps to provide financial assistance to workers at their home arena.

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Paul Zeise: We're about to find out how important sports really are

PAUL ZEISE

MAR 13, 2020 2:47 PM

Very few cliches grind my gears more than “It’s just sports; they aren’t that important.”

It couldn’t be more wrong. Sports are important to a lot of people in this country. They are how a lot of people feed their families and what enable a lot of student-athletes go to college for free.

They can also serve as an incredible diversion for us all. When the world hits us in the face, how do many people escape it? They turn to sports, by jogging, playing golf or tennis or basketball, or watching others do the same. Safety is of the utmost importance, but as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds, don’t you think sports would come in handy over the next few weeks if we are all stuck indoors because there’s nowhere really to go?

And let’s not forget about the economic impact of all this mess. Take, for instance, the NCAA tournament, which, along with nearly everything else, was canceled on Thursday.

Towns such as Albany, N.Y., Omaha, Neb., Spokane, Wash., and Greensboro, N.C., all were set to host first- and second-round games. I would imagine the day those were awarded created a lot of joy within the local governments and chambers of commerce. That is an economic boom that goes far beyond what happens at the arena.

Now multiple that many times over all over the country as the NBA, MLB and NHL take a break. I have friends who work at PPG Paints Arena who are losing out on a lot of money because the Penguins will miss home dates. Some of them supplement their income by working at the arena, and some make a big chunk of their living there. That’s now in jeopardy.

College athletes who have worked much of their lives for the chance to play in the NCAA tournament won’t get the chance to do it. You might not think that’s important, but if you had any idea of the sacrifice and commitment it takes to play Division I athletics — or college athletics at every level, really — you would change your tune. These athletes all want to compete, they all want their moment, they all want to have a chance to play and now they are being told they can’t. My heart goes out to the seniors out there who are missing out on this chance to play because they played their last game and didn’t even know it.

Yes, life goes on, and eventually we will all go back to normal. But over the next three weeks, three months, however long it is without sports being played, we are all going to understand exactly how important sports are.

Athletes are going to realize just how much of who they are is tied to what they do for a living. Fans are going to realize just how much we rely on sports to take our minds off life for a while and feel a sense of being connected to those around us. Younger athletes are going to realize just how much they miss being with their teammates and working together toward a common goal.

And cities, states, service workers, airlines and a whole host of others are going to feel the financial pinch. The longer it goes on, the more painful it will be.

Sports are an important part of the fabric of who we are as a nation. If you didn’t understand that before, my guess is you will soon.

Post Gazette LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180863 Pittsburgh Penguins NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly told TSN on Friday morning that “the general expectation is that players will remain in their club’s home cities absent unusual circumstances.” But Daly said if a player is separated from his family because his permanent home is elsewhere, he “should be NHL memo gives Penguins clarity on next steps after season is put on permitted” to go there. hold Friday morning, the Penguins, who since the start of February have acquired four new players via trade, were trying to sort out such logistics with their players. But the belief is that many players will remain in the MATT VENSEL Pittsburgh area. MAR 13, 2020 1:30 PM Thursday, as the Penguins waited in Columbus to see if that night’s game against the Blue Jackets was still on, the NHL announced that the suspension of its season would begin immediately, with the hopes of When the Penguins touched down in Pittsburgh on Thursday afternoon, eventually resuming it. their flight landing less than two hours after the NHL announced it was suspending its season as the COVID-19 pandemic shook America, the That news came a day after the NBA suspended its season “until further Penguins knew about as much as we did about what the future would notice” after the first instance of a player testing positive for COVID-19. hold in the coming weeks. In addition to the suspension of those leagues, the NCAA canceled its A day later, the Penguins still didn’t have many answers. The news of the remaining winter and spring championships, MLB pushed back the start NHL and other leagues shutting down, hopefully on a temporary basis, of spring training and the Masters golf tournament and Boston Marathon came in waves on Wednesday and Thursday while they watched on from were postponed. a Columbus hotel. The NHL has not publicly stated how long the suspension will last. But The league, in conjunction with the NHL Players Association, was still the NBA, perhaps the most progressive of North American professional figuring out the next steps for teams. The Penguins remained in a holding sports leagues, will take a hiatus of “at least” 30 days, NBA pattern until later in the day Friday, when the NHL issued a memo to its commissioner Adam Silver said. teams and players. Just twice since 1915 has the Stanley Cup not been awarded. In 1919, Obviously, the organization on Friday was mostly concerned about the the finals were canceled after five games after the Spanish flu health of players, coaches and other team employees. When the team hospitalized many Montreal Canadiens players and killed one player. plane landed Thursday, no one among the traveling party showed any And the Cup was not claimed in 2005 after that season was canceled symptoms of COVID-19. No tests were administered. Nobody needed to due to a labor lockout. be quarantined. The Penguins, who have played 69 of 82 games, sit third in the Sidney Crosby is all smiles after scoring in the third period against the Metropolitan Division standings behind the Washington Capitals and the Wild, Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020, at PPG Paints Arena. Philadelphia Flyers.

That remained the case Friday morning, according to a team source. Post Gazette LOADED: 03.14.2020

The league has stated that there will be no mandatory testing for all players. If one shows symptoms of COVID-19, a test will be administered as appropriate.

“We will continue to monitor all the appropriate medical advice, and we will encourage our players and other members of the NHL community to take all reasonable precautions — including by self-quarantine, where appropriate,” NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said Thursday afternoon in a statement.

The Penguins told their players upon their arrival back in Pittsburgh to go home to their places of residence in the area to await word on what happens next.

They got a little bit of clarity later in the day Friday, when the NHL’s memo arrived.

According to TSN, the memo stressed that NHL teams and players should adhere to a “self-quarantine” period that “should allow us to be in the best position possible to assess next steps regarding the potential resumption of play.”

Following that period, which could last several days, the NHL hopes to re-open team facilities for players to work on conditioning. That would be followed by “a training camp period” where organized team practices would be held.

Penguins fans watch a first-round playoff game against the New York Islanders outside PPG Paints Arena last April.

Teams are allowed to communicate with their players. But for now, team facilities are to be unavailable to players. Players can exercise at home or outdoors “while maintaining six feet of distance from others,” the memo obtained by TSN said. Players were asked to not skate informally at public rinks at this time.

UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex, the team’s practice facility in Cranberry, was closed to the public Thursday and will stay shuttered through Sunday. Facility staff said “in the near future” information will be provided about next week.

It is unclear what the team will be permitted to do there in the coming days. 1180864 Pittsburgh Penguins Arena employees were also in the dark as of Friday morning. Many are retirees and in the age range of persons reported to be most at risk to the more serious effects of COVID-19. (Editor’s note: The Penguins announced Friday evening a plan to pay “full and part-time arena and Their season on hold, the Penguins are ‘still trying to process what this service employees at PPG Paints Arena, who would otherwise lose means’ income on regular season games because the NHL has paused the season.” The Penguins’ players, the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation and

the Mario Lemieux Foundation will fund that initiative.) By Rob Rossi Mar 13, 2020 “We know what you know,” a member of the Penguins said late Thursday. “But I don’t think anybody really knows anything.”

During their 53 years as a franchise, the Penguins have been through a The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 lot: five Stanley Cup championships, bankruptcy, a blown 3-0 playoff lead, cancer scares, blood clots, strokes, concussions, even the death of a coach.

And yet, as one long-tenured employee said, nobody “ever could have imagined something like this.”

Imagining “something like this” seemed to come with the territory when it came to the Penguins. But the NHL’s decision to indefinitely pause the season was something new entirely.

Upon awaking in Columbus, Ohio, on Thursday morning, Penguins personnel were left to try preparing for a game against the Blue Jackets that was to be played in an empty arena. As one person with the club relayed to The Athletic, “We are trying to make it a normal game day — obviously, it isn’t.” That person then asked a reporter to keep him updated about a league Board of Governors meeting called to address a novel coronavirus pandemic that had already caused the NBA to suspend and later caused MLB to delay the start of its season.

“You know as much as we do,” a senior member of management said before the start of the NHL’s meeting Thursday. Hours after it ended with a statement altering the public to an indefinite suspension of the 2019-20 season, another team employee confirmed the Penguins are “still trying to process what this means.”

What does it mean? Here’s what we know:

No member of the Penguins organization had shown symptoms of or was believed to be infected by the coronavirus. Any player that did would have been quarantined in Pittsburgh, but that was not the case as of early Friday.

Those with the team in Columbus returned to Pittsburgh on a charter flight Thursday afternoon.

The Penguins were working with players to determine logistics, including the viability of returning to their offseason homes. (A non-American player confided he was “not comfortable” leaving the United States because of possible restricted travel into the country.)

General manager Jim Rutherford, in a text message, confirmed the Penguins can be in contact with players during the NHL’s pause period.

On their official website, the Penguins encouraged fans with tickets to previously scheduled home games to “hold onto their tickets for potential future use.” (Fans with other ticket-related questions should read this FAQ provided by the club.)

It might seem like not a lot is known about the next few days, weeks or months. The reason is, not a lot is known. That ranged from everything as to whether players remaining in Pittsburgh could practice in unofficial group sessions (as was the case during a labor-related work stoppage at the beginning of the 2012-13 season) or even if club personnel would be able to make use of PPG Paints Arena and/or the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in coming days.

The most common response shared Thursday: “Don’t know. What are you hearing?”

That included a potential return-to-games. Most club personnel contacted admitted to not knowing of even tentative plans for how/if the regular season could be completed or how the pause could impact the playoff format, the beginning of free agency or the offseason in general.

Arena availability will be an issue when and if the NHL resumes games. PPG Paints Arena had 10 non-hockey events (concerts, comedy shows, etc.) from April 1 through July 14. Any of those was subject to also being changed. 1180865 San Jose Sharks Friday, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, in interview posted on the league’s website, said that to his knowledge, no player or league employee had tested positive for COVID-19.

San Jose Sharks to pay part-time employees for hours lost “No matter how this turns out, there will be a material negative consequence to the business, and that may be important on some level,” Bettman said. “But it’s secondary to the first goal, which (is making) sure that we’re doing the right thing for everybody’s safety and well-being.” By CURTIS PASHELKA | PUBLISHED: March 13, 2020 at 12:50 p.m. | UPDATED: March 13, 2020 at 7:01 p.m. Bettman explained why the league has decided not to cancel the season outright at this time.

“We may have the benefit of time to complete the season and the SAN JOSE — Part-time employees who were scheduled to work Sharks playoffs in an appropriate manner, and there’s no reason at this point in and Barracuda games at SAP Center in March will be compensated by time to preclude any of our options, even though we don’t know what Sharks Sports & Entertainment, a representative from the organization they are yet,” Bettman said. said Friday. San Jose Mercury News: LOADED: 03.14.2020 The Sharks were previously scheduled to play three home games this month, facing the Montreal Canadiens next Thursday, the Boston Bruins on March 21 and the Arizona Coyotes on March 29.

The Barracuda, the Sharks’ AHL affiliate, was scheduled to play at home against the Colorado Eagles on Tuesday and the on March 20.

A Sharks team spokesman could not say how many employees this decision would include. More building employees are required for Sharks games, for which anywhere from 15,000 to 17,000 tickets are distributed on average. Barracuda games usually draw much smaller crowds and require fewer employees.

Jobs for part-time employees include security guards, ushers and clean- up crews. Full-time employees with Sharks Sports & Entertainment have been allowed to work from home.

The Sharks’ majority owner is Hasso Plattner, co-founder of SAP software.

Although several other events had been scheduled to take place at SAP Center this month, it appears, as of now, the Sharks’ decision only applies to hockey games. Those events included five nights of Cirque de Soleil, four performances by motivational speaker and a Marc Anthony concert.

Four scheduled Robbins shows from March 12-15 were postponed, and Cirque de Soleil will not be performing at the arena from March 24-28. Potential makeup dates have not yet been announced. Thursday, the State of California requested a ban on all public events over 250 persons to help contain the coronavirus pandemic.

Other NHL ownership groups in places like Anaheim, New Jersey and Tampa Bay have recently made similar decisions to the Sharks in regards to their arena employees.

Both the NHL and the AHL announced Thursday that they were pausing their seasons for an indefinite amount of time in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Sharks were scheduled to play in St. Louis against the Blues on Friday, but instead returned to San Jose on Thursday afternoon.

The Sharks, and other NHL players, have been advised to stay home until a yet-to-be-determined time.

League officials and the executives with the NHL Players’ Association have been in constant contact in recent days.

Friday, according to Pierre LeBrun of TSN and the Athletic, players have been asked to self-quarantine in their home NHL cities. There also may come a time when players may be able to skate at an NHL facility in small groups and perhaps hold a mini-camp if the season is able to resume.

In the interim, no practices and no meetings are taking place. Solar4America Ice facilities in San Jose, Fremont and Oakland are now closed at least until March 22. Before re-opening, according to a news release, building officials, “will reassess the then-current local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations. We appreciate our customers’ patience and understanding as we move forward on a week by week basis.”

The Sharks Store at SAP Center will be temporarily closed from March 13 to March 20. The team said it will “re-evaluate at that time on when the store will re-open.” 1180866 San Jose Sharks “It was clear to me that no matter what scenario we came up with that we continued to play with, either with or without fans, it was inconceivable, certainly unlikely, that we were going to get through the rest of the regular season at minimum without somebody testing positive,” Bettman Bettman: NHL players in isolation while season is on hold said.

Unlike NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who said his league's season would be suspended at least 30 days, Bettman would not put a Stephen Whyno and John Wawrow, Ap Hockey Writers Updated 6:29 pm timeframe on the NHL hiatus. The Stanley Cup is typically awarded in PDT, Friday, March 13, 2020 early June after two months of playoff games.

“I think the scope of what this is still unknown to all of us,” agent Stephen NHL players are staying away from rinks and self-isolating during the Bartlett told The AP. “I think the only thing that we can counsel people is coronavirus pandemic that has put their season on hold. to take a deep breath and take whatever steps necessary and prudent to keep yourself healthy. And rest assured, especially for our athlete Players have been instructed to remain at home in their team's city and population, that those guys are in the very best of shape.” avoid practice facilities and crowded places. Within the next two weeks, they could be allowed to return and skate and work out in small groups Players are in midseason shape with roughly a dozen games left before while games are not being played. the playoffs.

“What we now asked our clubs and our players to do is to go home, “It's very difficult for the players, but at the same time, you have to also isolate to the extent possible for the next few days," Commissioner Gary appreciate what's going on in society,” agent Allan Walsh said. “The Bettman said Friday. "How many days exactly we're working on with the players do realize that we're dealing with a life and death situation for medical people. And then we'll be looking to progress in terms of many.” activities once we get a handle on whether or not anybody in the short Players seem to be on board with the NHL’s response. San Jose Sharks term is going to test positive.” forward Evander Kane tweeted the NHL “has done the right thing in The NHL and NHL Players' Association laid out more specific guidelines taking this pause to help the risk of spreading this virus.” and sent them to players and teams in a memo read to The Associated Bettman said it is not the NHL's independent call when to resume play Press by a person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the and did not rule out the possibility of games in empty arenas. Fehr memo is private. expects any decisions on returning to play to be a joint effort between the The memo states team facilities are currently closed to players, except league and NHLPA. those requiring treatment for what the memo refers to as “disabling “During this period, everybody's trying to do the best they can and to injuries.” The next step, following the direction of health officials, would work things out so that we can stay on the same page and make the be opening the facilities and allowing players to skate and work out in resumption of play as smooth as possible,” Fehr said. small groups. No one really knows what that'll look like. The NHL is working on a Idealistically, NHLPA executive director Don Fehr said team facilities variety of contingency plans, all of which include trying to play a full 82- would open to players by next week, though he noted there are variables game season in 2020-21 — even if that means starting later. that could push back that timeline. “This is a rapidly evolving situation and there are a lot of unknowns and “I think we're in a let's relax and take stock of where we are (mode)." we've got to make sure that we understand all the ramifications of Fehr said. "You do as much as you can as soon as you can when everything that's coming at us and how we respond,” Bettman said." And conditions permit. But I'm not going to try and guess when that will be. It'll most of all, we want to do the right things and use common sense." be as soon as you can." San Francisco Chronicle LOADED: 03.14.2020 There's no timetable on when games might resume.

Agent Pat Brisson, who represents Pittsburgh star Sidney Crosby and others, is advising his clients to be safe and take precautions but also open-minded and positive.

“At the end of the day, I do believe we will continue,” Brisson told The AP. “It's a time to also reflect, whether we have four or five days or a week, you can relax, recharge, recover and re-align yourself and reset.”

After announcing Thursday the season would be put on “pause,” Bettman remains optimistic of resuming play and eventually awarding the Stanley Cup.

“That would be the goal,” Bettman said in a phone interview with The AP and the NHL’s website. “Health, safety, well-being of the NHL family, especially and including our fans, is most important. If the business considerations and the money were the only thing, then we and a bunch of others would keep playing.”

Bettman and Fehr each independently said they were not aware of any player testing positive for the new coronavirus. They added they can't be certain no one is feeling ill or awaiting test results.

A spokesman for the Carolina Hurricanes said broadcaster John Forslund was feeling fine and had not been tested but was self-isolating after using a hotel room previously occupied by someone who tested positive for COVID-19. The NBA's Utah Jazz, who had players Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell test positive, were at the hotel just before the Hurricanes.

It was Gobert's positive coronavirus test prior to a game Wednesday night that shifted talk from playing in empty arenas to postponing entirely. Bettman told owners the first positive test result by any player would mean “all bets are off." There are some 700 players among the 31 NHL teams across North America. 1180867 San Jose Sharks

Sharks to pay SAP Center part-time employees impacted by coronavirus halt

By Josh Schrock March 13, 2020 1:26 PM

The Sharks are joining a growing list of professional sports organizations that will do right by their employees during the coronavirus outbreak that has paused the sports world.

Sharks Sports & Entertainment will pay all their part-time SAP Center employees who were scheduled to work this month for both Sharks and Barracuda games, a spokesman told the Mercury News' Curtis Pashelka Friday.

The Sharks were scheduled to play three games at home in March, while the Barracuda had two.

Both the NHL and AHL, along with the NBA, MLB, MLS, NCAA and PGA Tour, suspended their season Thursday amid the coronavirus outbreak that has hit countries all over the world.

The Kings, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Dallas Mavericks of the NBA all have said they will pay their employees as well. Cavaliers star Kevin Love and Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo both are giving $100,000 to help those workers affected.

The World Health Organization labeled coronavirus as a pandemic Wednesday.

As of Friday, more than 1,300 cases have been discovered in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control, state and local governments and NBC News reporting.

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180868 San Jose Sharks

Sharks to pay employees for time missed; no players tested yet for COVID-19

By Kevin Kurz Mar 13, 2020

Sharks Sports and Entertainment announced on Friday that it will pay all of its part-time workers for events at SAP Center that were canceled through the end of March due to the coronavirus pandemic, following the lead of a handful of other professional sports organizations.

The Sharks had three games scheduled for March, while the AHL Barracuda had two. The NHL and AHL suspended their seasons earlier this week.

On Thursday, the Sharks announced that one of their part-time employees tested positive for COVID-19. The employee last worked an event at SAP Center on March 3. It’s unclear whether this employee had any contact with Sharks players, although none of the players had yet experienced any symptoms as of Friday afternoon and therefore none had yet been tested for the virus, The Athletic has learned.

It’s thought that symptoms of COVID-19 may appear from two to 14 days after exposure.

The Sharks flew back to San Jose from St. Louis on Thursday and have been instructed to stay away from their practice facility.

On Friday, the league advised all of its players to “self-quarantine in their own homes over the next week or so,” according to The Athletic’s Aaron Portzline.

Rehab is permitted to continue. The Sharks have a significant list of injured players including Logan Couture (concussion), Dalton Prout (concussion), Erik Karlsson (broken left finger), Tomas Hertl (torn left knee ligaments), Jake Middleton (ankle) and Mario Ferraro (lower body).

It’s almost certain that the Sharks have played their last game of the 2019-20 season; they were well out of the playoff race at the time the league shut down operations. The NHL reportedly still hopes to stage some version of the Stanley Cup playoffs with teams that were in the race, but that, like so much these days, remains uncertain.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180869 St Louis Blues

Blues announce postponements, cancellations of community/fan events

Jim Thomas 15 hrs ago

The Blues announced a series of postponements and cancellations of community and fan events in conjunction with the NHL’s decision to suspend play due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Postponed

• Little Blues practices (scheduled for March 14-15)

• First Responder Night, including Police vs. Firefighters game (March 15)

• Wells Fargo First Game program (March 15 and March 29)

• Little Blues graduation (March 21)

• Blues Girls Hockey League Learn to Play (March 28)

• Fan Appreciation Week events (March 29-April 2)

• This Bar Bleed Blue Backyard BBQ (April 4)

• All Blues Street Ball Hockey, Blues Bookworms, & Future Goals school visits (various dates through March 27)

• All corporate partner private practices (various dates through April 2)

Postponed until 2020-21 season

• Blues Alumni Fantasy Camp (moved to September 2020)

• Hockey Is For Everyone Celebration (to be determined)

• Event Series: Captains Corner (to be determined)

Cancelled

• All scheduled Louie, Blue Crew, Street Team appearances in crowds larger than 100 people (various dates through March 27)

• MVP/HOF Season Ticket Holder On Ice Photo (March 29)

St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180870 St Louis Blues Until the NHL suspended play, Pietrangelo appeared to be a slam-dunk to also set a career high for points in one season. With 36 assists to go along with those 16 goals, Pietrangelo has 52 points. It’s the fourth time in his career he’s hit 50 points — which is a big number for a Blues notebook: Team will make Enterprise 'a healthy environment' for defenseman. fans when play resumes His career high is 54 points, set in the 2017-18 season when he had 15 goals and 39 assists.

Jim Thomas 22 hrs ago Twelve of Pietrangelo’s 16 goals this season have come on the road, which is a league high. The only other NHL defenseman to hit double

figures on the road this season is Washington’s John Carlson, with 10. Blues president and CEO Chris Zimmerman reached out to fans via “I’m trying to shoot more this year,” Pietrangelo said. “So I guess the statement Thursday, saying that the team and the National Hockey more you shoot, maybe the more you score.” League are following the mandates of health experts and local authorities to make Enterprise Center (and the adjacent Stifel Theatre) a healthy St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 03.14.2020 environment for those attending events at those venues.

But for now, there will be no hockey played at Enterprise as a result of the NHL’s decision to suspend the season on an indefinite basis due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“We will continue to monitor all of the appropriate medical advice, and will encourage everyone affiliated with our organization and all of St. Louis to take all reasonable and appropriate precautions,” Zimmerman said.

“Our goal is to resume play and host other events as soon as it is appropriate. We expect to complete this season and defend the Stanley Cup.”

Zimmerman said the Blues would provide updates on further developments.

But for now there was no word from the Blues on ticket policy regarding postponed games. The Blues had six home games remaining in the regular season prior to the suspension of play, starting with Friday’s contest against San Jose. They were scheduled to play Sunday afternoon against Ottawa, followed by home games March 27 against Los Angeles, March 29 against Minnesota, March 31 against Detroit, and April 2 against Boston.

Several other NHL teams provided information on tickets Thursday. The Chicago Blackhawks, for example, said tickets for postponed games would be honored when that particular game was rescheduled. If postponed games are not rescheduled or end up being played in an empty arena, purchasers were given the option of either receiving a refund or a credit for a future game.

Vladi’s dilemma

Perhaps no Blues player is more crestfallen about the suspension of NHL play than forward Vladimir Tarasenko, who was on target for a return to action next week — when the Blues had been scheduled to take a four- game road trip over eight days.

“He’s getting real close. His tests are really good,” coach Craig Berube said following the team’s morning skate Wednesday in Anaheim.

But the silver lining to this, assuming the NHL does return this season, is that Tarasenko will now have extra time to make sure his left shoulder is totally healthy and strong. Had NHL play not been suspended, and Tarasenko returned next week, he would have been pushing the post- surgery timetable.

Tarasenko suffered the injury Oct. 24 against the Los Angeles Kings. Under the Blues’ stated timetable of five to six months recovery and rehab, Tarasenko’s return would’ve come in just under five months.

Milestone for Petro

Defenseman Alex Pietrangelo’s two-goal performance Wednesday against Anaheim gave him 16 goals for the season, a career high.

“It’s always good when you get your own milestones,” Pietrangelo said after the game.

But he didn’t make too much of the achievement.

“It is what it is, I don’t know,” he said. “It feels good. Forget about it, get ready for the next game.”

Except now, Pietrangelo and everybody else have no idea when that next game will be played. 1180871 St Louis Blues “The positives, and I shared that with the captains, is the goal is to get back and to play as soon as possible,” Armstrong said. “But we don’t know what that schedule’s gonna look like.

Armstrong tells Blues to sit tight for now but be ready to defend Cup “We couldn’t have positioned ourselves any better for when we do come when hockey resumes back. We’re second place in the NHL, top place in the Western Conference. So no matter how they slice up the playoffs — if they need two teams, we’ll be one.”

Jim Thomas 12 hrs ago 0 There have been some reports that the league might not play any more regular-season games when play resumes, but simply start with the

playoffs. If that’s the case, the Blues would have the top seed in the West Sit back, sit tight, and wait this thing out. And when the time comes, be with a 42-19-10 record, for 94 points. And Boston would have the top ready to defend the Stanley Cup. seed in the East at 44-14-12, for 100 points.

That’s the advice Blues general manager has given to Because NHL teams have played an uneven number of games — his players. For the immediate future, Armstrong said there will be no between 68 and 71 games in the 82-game schedule — winning team practices, meetings or activities. percentage would establish playoff seeding if no more regular-season games were played. But again, the Blues would be first in the West at “The players have been informed that the Centene Center and Enterprise .662 (and open postseason play against Nashville) and Boston would be Center are closed for just our team hockey-related activities, and I’ll stay first in the East at .714. in touch.” Armstrong would not speculate on such a scenario, that would have the Armstrong told the Post-Dispatch that he doesn’t want Blues players NHL resuming play with the playoffs. traveling during the NHL’s indefinite suspension of play due to the coronavirus pandemic. “We don’t need to make assessments of what they’re going to do,” Armstrong said. “I think it’s secondary until we find out how long this virus “No,” Armstrong said. “Really what we just said is: This is new. Everyone is with us. No one knows the answer because no one knows when we’re take a deep breath. And we’ll talk as information clears itself which will starting back up.” probably be in the next seven to 10 days. Similarly, he wouldn’t speculate on how long it would take before play “The major decision’s been done. Let’s just everyone take a deep breath resumed. and find out our new normal.” “All sports leagues, like NCAA, baseball, all of hockey, junior hockey, The Blues played their final game Wednesday night in Anaheim before have done the same thing,” Armstrong said, in terms of suspending or the NHL hit the pause button on the 2019-20 season, defeating the cancelling play. “So everyone now is focused on a much bigger picture Ducks 4-2. It was a makeup game of the Feb. 11 contest that was than our own sport, or sport in general. They’re focused on society, and postponed in the first period after defenseman Jay Bouwmeester time will let us know what the next step is.” collapsed on the bench due to cardiac arrest. In the meantime, both Armstrong and his scouting department must The team was in the air Thursday, about an hour and a half into the flight mirror what Armstrong has instructed Blues players to do — sit back, sit home from California, when the NHL’s decision to “pause” the season tight, and let this thing play out. In short, there’s nothing for them to watch was announced. because the Canadian Hockey League (comprising junior hockey’s top three leagues) has suspended play. So has the American Hockey “In light of ongoing developments resulting from the coronavirus, and League and the ECHL. College hockey has canceled its season. after consulting with medical experts and convening a conference call of the Board of Governors, the National Hockey League is announcing “There’s no games,” Armstrong said. “The European leagues have shut today that it will pause the 2019 20 season beginning with tonight’s down, the people that we would be scouting to draft — those leagues games,” NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement. have shut down.

The tipping point, Bettman said, came when the NBA announced “Our scouts are like everybody. We’re just going to sort of lay low, let this Wednesday night that it was suspending play following the news that thing find its level ground and then we’ll react to it.” Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert had tested positive for coronavirus. St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 03.14.2020 Until that point, it appeared that the NHL would press forward with games, even though the San Jose Sharks and had announced they would play home games without fans in their arenas.

“Given that our leagues share so many facilities and locker rooms, and it now seems likely that some member of the NHL community would test positive at some point, it is no longer appropriate to try to continue to play games at this time,” Bettman said.

But make no mistake, the NHL intends to complete the season at some point.

“Our goal is to resume play as soon as it is appropriate and prudent, so that we will be able to complete the season and award the Stanley Cup,” Bettman said.

In more than 100 years of hockey, there have only been two seasons when the Stanley Cup wasn’t awarded:

• In 1919, the Spanish flu epidemic forced the cancellation of the championship series between the Montreal Canadiens and Seattle Metropolitans after five games — with the series deadlocked 2-2-1.

• In 2005 there was no Stanley Cup Final played due to the NHL lockout. In fact, the labor dispute led to the cancellation of the entire season.

If and when the NHL returns, the Blues have done just about everything possible to defend their Cup from last season to this point. Armstrong communicated with the Blues’ leaders — captain Alex Pietrangelo and the team’s alternate captains — on that very topic. 1180872 St Louis Blues celebrating. It paid off. My money was on the BattleHawks selling out all levels of The Dome during that next home game against Los Angeles. What a scene it would have been. It was great to hear the XFL is taking care of its players by paying them through the end of the canceled BenFred: Games stop. Sports don't. And neither will the Post-Dispatch season. That bodes well for the belief the league will be back. sports team. Hunzeker’s team started planning for the 2021 season on Friday. That’s how Hunzeker rolls.

• What’s new with MLS? 1 hr ago If ever there was a team that could make some noise while there are no Ben Frederickson games that demand our attention, it’s the good folks at MLS4TheLou. An announcement on team colors and name was supposed to arrive in early April. With big events out of the question for now, a ceremony could be JUPITER, Fla. — What will sportswriters do without games? on hold. Still, opportunities abound to excite potential fans. Grab them.

I get the joke. • How will our star prep players be affected?

In person. On the radio. From Twitter. The NCAA put a stop to recruiting through April 15. That could be pushed back depending on how this plays out. Our high schools are packed with I just don’t get the joke. potential college stars. Our coverage can inform college coaches. It How St. Louis area teams and their leagues navigate their way through already does. the coronavirus pandemic is as fascinating as it is important. • What will no games mean for our bottom line? So many questions. Very few answers. The ones we think we have St. Louis relies on sports to draw visitors and create revenue. This is a change not by the day, as Cardinals president John Mozeliak said here tense time that needs to be examined and explained. at Cardinals camp Friday, but by the hour. • How will our teams handle it when coronavirus hits home? That’s what sportswriters will do without games. Right now, we don’t know of any area player who has been affected by We will cover how key cogs in our community handle an international the virus. The unfortunate reality is, it’s probably just a matter of time. crisis. We will chase answers. We have been. That coverage is crucial. • How will the Cardinals handle this? Games have stopped. Every team in baseball has been thrown a historic curveball. When play Sports won’t stop. resumes, whenever that is, some teams will be better prepared than others. The Cardinals believe they can lead that race. Neither will the Post-Dispatch sports team.

• Will the Blues get a chance to defend their Stanley Cup championship? St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 03.14.2020 The defending champs were leading the Western Conference when coronavirus put hockey on ice. The good news is Vladimir Tarasenko’s shoulder, perhaps the most important injury X-factor in the entire playoff equation, benefits from every single day of this pause. It only helps if the NHL gets to press play on its playoffs.

• Will players like Tay Weaver get another shot?

The popular punching bag that is the NCAA has a chance to play the hero role after it made the right call to cancel March Madness. It should take it. Grant every Division I athlete whose final season of eligibility was cut short by the coronavirus shutdown another year of eligibility, if those players are willing to return to the same school and continue taking classes. That would mean St. Louis University guard Weaver could get another chance to dance.

I realize this would be tricky. There is no way to please everyone. But seniors should end their last go-round with a loss, or an unforgettable win. Not because of a pandemic.

My suggestion: Let them come back, but set limits. Don’t count the waiver recipients toward next season’s scholarship counts. Sure, incoming freshmen might lose some playing time to players like Weaver, but some of those newcomers might beat out the returners anyway. Not all eligible players would take advantage of the opportunity. Some would pass up the chance to turn pro in their sport. Others would prefer to pursue non-sports careers. The waiver could be limited to teams that were not already eliminated from the premier postseason tournament. Sorry, NIT and CBI. For example, basketball teams that had zero chance of receiving an at-large NCAA Tournament bid would not be eligible if they had been knocked out of their conference tournament before games stopped. Teams that were on the cusp get the benefit of the doubt. Division I schools have the money to pay for the extra scholarships. If it could be expanded to lower divisions with help from the NCAA, do that. If incoming freshmen get miffed because of the unexpected roster changes, let them out of their letters of intent. This would be a one-year exception. It could work. Not just for basketball. All sports affected. Men’s and women’s.

• Will the XFL survive?

I feel terrible for BattleHawks president Kurt Hunzeker. He poured his heart and soul into making the St. Louis XFL experience something worth 1180873 St Louis Blues last season). With nine goals, Dunn is just shy of reaching the 10-goal plateau for the second consecutive season.

When Pietrangelo (13 goals), Dunn (12) and Parayko (10) reached Blues' blueliners scoring goals at historic rate double figures last season, it marked the first time in franchise history the team had three defensemen score 10 or more goals in the same season.

As for the team total of 45 defensemen goals, it now makes three Jim Thomas 1 hr ago consecutive seasons the Blues have gotten 40-plus goals. Minnesota is the only other NHL team with 40-plus defensemen goals in each of the

past three seasons. If the NHL’s suspension of play means no more regular-season games Last season, the Blues had 46 defensive goals, which was second to for the 2019-20 campaign, the Blues will finish second in the overall Carolina’s 48. Two seasons ago, they finished tied for sixth in the NHL, standings to Boston. with 44. And first in the league in goals scored by defensemen. It would be only This blueline productivity is of historical significance, because in the first the second time that’s happened in 52 season of Blues hockey. 49 seasons of Blues hockey, their D-corps had scored 40 or more goals Alex Pietrangelo’s two goals in Wednesday’s 4-2 win in Anaheim pushed only seven times. Now, they’ve done it three seasons in a row. the Blues ahead of the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers for The only other time they’d reached 40 goals in even back-to-back most goals scored by a team’s D-corps. seasons was 1997-98 (56) and ’98-99 (41). The 56 goals by defensemen The Blues have 45 goals by their blueliners this season, compared to 44 is a franchise record for one season and marked the only other time the for both Philly and the Rangers. To put that in perspective, only seven of Blues have led the league. the NHL’s 31 teams had 40 or more goals by defensemen when the The recent run of 40-goal seasons is a testament both to the system and season was halted due to the coronavirus. the talent in the Blues’ defensive group. Fifteen teams, or nearly half the league, had fewer than 30 goals scored “There’s very good skill back there for sure,” Berube said. “Skating ability. by their defensive corps. Shooting. Just all-around play. They’re good players. Parayko and “We use our D a lot in the offensive zone, as much as any team in the Pietrangelo, Faulk, Dunn.” league probably,” coach Craig Berube said. “We encourage them to Those four all have shots that range from good to excellent. pound pucks and they do a pretty good job of it.” “Bortz and Gunny chip in when they chip in,” Berube added. “They’re not Blues defensemen do take a lot of shots. Pietrangelo is tied for second the most high-end defensemen when it comes to scoring, but they’ve with San Jose’s Brent Burns in shots on goal by defensemen with 225. scored some big goals the last couple years for us.” (Nashville’s Roman Josi leads the league with 260.) It all adds up for the Blues’ blueliners. All told the Blues have a league-high four D-men in the top 35 in shots on goal, with Colton Parayko (18th, 162 shots), Justin Faulk (28th, 147) and St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 03.14.2020 Vince Dunn (34th, 147) behind Pietrangelo.

“Even when we’re not scoring, it seems like we’re able to generate chances for our forwards, or for each other,” Pietrangelo said. “Open up space. Right now, pucks are going in, so it’s important to have that balance in the back end, too. It takes a little bit of pressure off the forwards.”

Frequently, those shots are from the point or near the blueline, kind of the traditional launching areas for defensemen to shoot. But they can also be seen joining the rush, or “activating” as the coaches and players call it and moving closer to the net.

Every now and then, you’ll even see a Carl Gunnarsson or Robert Bortuzzo — not known as scoring threats with a combined 46 goals in 994 career games — buzzing around the net front.

“We need our D active,” Berube said. “They gotta be part of it all. They do a good job of it. We ask them to be aggressive in the offensive zone. Hammering walls, getting involved offensively. Getting up in the rush. And they do a good job of it.”

The D-corps was the most productive part of the offense prior to the coronavirus suspension. Over the last four games, six of the eight Blues goals came from defensemen.

With his 16 goals this season, Pietrangelo is leading the charge. It’s a career-high season total, and is tied for seventh in franchise history for a defenseman, with Hall of Famer Al MacInnis scoring 16 in the 2002-03 season and Rob Ramage doing so in 1982-83.

MacInnis is all over the defensive leaderboard with 20 goals in the 1998- 99 season, 19 goals in 1997-98 and 17 in 1995-96. The only other Blues D-men with more than 16 goals in a season: Larry Sacharuk had 20 in 1974-75, and Jeff Brown had 20 in the ’91-92 season, and then 25 in ’92- 93 which remains the single-season franchise record for a defensemen.

Pietrangelo may or may not have a chance to climb the list this season, depending on whether any or all of the team’s remaining 11 regular- season games get rescheduled. The Blues’ first postponed game of the coronavirus “pause” came Friday, when they had been scheduled to play San Jose at Enterprise Center.

Pietrangelo has had help when it comes to blueline scoring this season. Most notably, Parayko has 10 goals, which matches his career high (set 1180874 Tampa Bay Lightning

Lightning’s Vinik Sports Group set to compensate Amalie Arena employees

By Mari Faiello

Published Yesterday

Updated Yesterday

TAMPA — A day after the NHL announced a pause in its season due to coronavirus concerns, Tampa Bay Lightning owner Jeff Vinik and Vinik Sports Group announced a compensation plan for Amalie Arena’s part- time employees who were previously scheduled to work hockey games and other arena events through March.

This timetable includes: the seven home Lightning games that were postponed; the six March Madness men’s basketball games Tampa was supposed to host next week; any other events hosted at the Yuengling Center and Amalie Arena.

RELATED: Had tickets to a now canceled sports event? Here's how to get a refund.

Vinik and his sports group also will launch an internal program called “VSG Cares” to help provide assistance for full- and part-time employees facing temporary financial hardships. The program will help employees (and their families) with housing, utilities, food, transportation and other essential needs, according to a news release.

“We pride ourselves on doing the right thing for our employees, especially in times of need,” Vinik Sports Group CEO said. "Jeff Vinik is a fantastic owner and we understand that our organization is where it is because of the people that work here — our ‘family’ is what makes our business so strong and during these uncertain times, we want to step forward and be there for these employees.”

Other teams have initiated similar programs for their arena employees.

Florida Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky said he would donate $100,000 to the workers at BB&T Center to help alleviate financial concerns. His teammates promised to match that amount with ownership chipping in as needed.

Ted Leonsis told Capital One Arena workers they would also get compensated for events previously scheduled this month, including Washington Capitals and Wizards games. Leonsis is the founder of the sports group that owns both teams.

New Jersey Devils owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer also committed to paying their staffers for postponed NHL games and other events hosted at the Prudential Center.

Other clubs contributing to their arena’s workers include Toronto, Nashville and Detroit.

NBA stars Kevin Love and Giannis Antetokounmpo were among the first professional sports athletes to publicly pledge money toward aiding arena workers. Rookie Zion Williamson is also compensating arena employees.

When the NBA stopped play Wednesday night, Mavericks owner Mark Cuban was the first professional sports owner to publicly acknowledge the arena’s workers.

“It’s not about the team, it’s about the country and life in general," he said. “What about all the people who work here on an hourly basis? We’ll put together a program for them."

Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180875 Tampa Bay Lightning

NHL to players: Self-isolate during coronavirus break

Published Yesterday

Updated Earlier today staff

With the NHL season on hold indefinitely because of coronavirus concerns, players have been instructed to remain at home in their team’s city and avoid practice facilities and crowded places. Within the next two weeks, they could be allowed to return and skate and work out in small groups.

“What we now asked our clubs and our players to do is to go home, isolate to the extent possible for the next few days,” commissioner Gary Bettman said Friday. “How many days exactly, we’re working on with the medical people. And then we’ll be looking to progress in terms of activities once we get a handle on whether or not anybody in the short term is going to test positive.”

The NHL and Players Association laid out specific guidelines and sent them to players and teams in a memo read reported by the Associated Press.

The memo states that team facilities are currently closed to players, except those requiring treatment for what the memo refers to as “disabling injuries.” The next step, based on health officials’ approval, would be opening the facilities and allowing players to skate and work out in small groups.

Also, players who want to self-quarantine away from their NHL home city because their family lives elsewhere, such as players traded at last month’s deadline, can do that after advising their team of it.

Idealistically, union executive director Don Fehr said, facilities would open to players by next week, though variables that could push back that time line.

There was no timetable on when games might resume.

Bettman said he remained optimistic about resuming play and eventually awarding the Stanley Cup.

“That would be the goal,” Bettman said in a phone interview with the Associated Press and the NHL’s website. “Health, safety, well-being of the NHL family, especially and including our fans, is most important. If the business considerations and the money were the only thing, then we and a bunch of others would keep playing.”

Bettman and Fehr independently said they were not aware of any player having tested positive for the coronavirus.

Hurricanes broadcaster John Forslund was feeling fine and had not been tested but was self-isolating after using a hotel room previously occupied by someone who tested positive for the virus, technically known as COVID-19, the team said. The NBA’s Utah Jazz, who had players Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell test positive, were at the hotel just before the Hurricanes.

Bettman said it is not the NHL’s independent call when to resume play and did not rule out playing games in empty arenas.

Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180876 Tampa Bay Lightning

NHL advises next steps after pausing season for coronavirus concerns

By Mari Faiello

Published Yesterday

TAMPA — The NHL’s deputy commissioner Bill Daly issued a loose outline for the league’s players in the wake of pausing the season due to coronavirus concerns.

The Lightning was scheduled to play the Flyers at home on Thursday night, followed by a back-to-back series beginning Saturday. The league, however, canceled all morning skates and team meetings about 30 minutes before they were expected to take the ice Thursday morning. Lightning players left the arena soon after the announcement.

Bill Daly spoke on some guidelines for players and clubs Friday morning. The NHL deputy commissioner recommended that players stay in the same general area of their club’s home city, however, they would not keep players away from their families in situations where the player is separated from his home because of his club’s city residence.

Daly also said the league sees a transition period ahead where hopefully players can return to their club facilities for voluntary workouts and skates in small groups.

The NHL Commissioner added that the league would not mandate testing for players, however, if they experience symptoms or becomes sick they will be “tested as appropriate.” The league is also not recommending informal skates for now.

Pierre LeBrun, of The Athletic, reported that Daly is not anticipating cutting next year’s regular season shorter than normal if this season runs into July and/or August.

The NHL’s decision to pause their season came a day after a Utah Jazz player tested positive for the coronavirus. The NBA released a statement Wednesday night that their season is suspended in wake of the virus. Since then, a second Utah Jazz player has tested positive for the coronavirus.

The Lightning followed the Jazz around this past weekend, sharing the same arenas a day after Utah played in both Detroit and Boston. But the Lightning confirmed their spaces in both cities had been deep cleaned and sanitized. They also immediately notified their players of the minimal risk.

After the NHL decided to pause its season, many other hockey leagues joined in, including the Canadien Hockey League (and its three regional leagues), the AHL and the ECHL.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said no NHL player has tested positive for the coronavirus to the best of his knowledge in an interview on CNBC.

“I’m a little hesitant to use the word suspension, because our hope and our expectation is, when things get back to normal and it’s safe and it’s prudent, that we can go back and resume the season and ultimately have the Stanley Cup awarded,” he said in the interview.

American Hockey League suspends play.

As of Friday morning, Bettman would not put a timetable on when the NHL would resume its season. The idea of reopening play with empty arenas — without fans — is also not out of the picture, either.

“And so it’s a bit of a puzzle, and part of the problem is, we don’t know what all the pieces are yet,” Bettman said on Friday.

“It’s going to evolve. We’re looking at all contingencies, and when the circumstances are right that we can play, then we’ll look at what we can do,” he said in Thursday’s interview. “My hope is that at some point we’ll get back to some normalcy, and that’s not just my hope for the NHL, and it’s not just my hope for all sports, it’s my hope for everything that’s going on.”

Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180877 Tampa Bay Lightning Right now, such a system would put the Lightning second in the Atlantic Division and playing the Maple Leafs in the first round of the playoffs. The Rangers, Islanders, Panthers, Predators and Wild would be out of the playoffs by two points or fewer. NHL pauses season amid coronavirus pandemic Canadian sports TV network TSN reported that the NHL had asked for teams’ building availability through the end of July. That wouldn’t be ideal but could be an option for a league with a relatively smaller TV deal and By Diana C. Nearhos a larger dependency on ticket and related revenue. Published Yesterday Only twice has the Stanley Cup not been awarded: in 1917, because of Updated Yesterday the Spanish flu and in 2005 due to the lockout that wiped out the 2004-05 season.

The Lightning didn’t have updates on ticket information. General Coronavirus outbreak stories are free to read as a public service at manager Julien BriseBois was not available to speak about the day’s tampabay.com/coronavirus. Sign up for our DayStarter newsletter to developments. receive updates weekday mornings. If this coverage is important to you, consider supporting local journalism by subscribing to the Tampa Bay Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 03.14.2020 Times at tampabay.com/subscribe.

With an eye toward still awarding the Stanley Cup this year, the NHL on Thursday said it would “pause” the season indefinitely because of the coronavirus.

“Our goal is to resume play as soon as it is appropriate and prudent, so that we will be able to complete the season and award the Stanley Cup,” the league said in a statement.

The league suspended play the day after the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus a global pandemic and the NBA became the first major North American pro league to shut down over the virus, technically known as COVID-19, after a player with the Utah Jazz tested positive for it.

The two leagues share 11 buildings, which influenced the NHL’s decision. The NHL by Thursday did not have a known case of COVID-19.

“Following last night’s news that an NBA player has tested positive for coronavirus — and given that our leagues share so many facilities and locker rooms and it now seems likely that some member of the NHL community would test positive at some point — it is no longer appropriate to try to continue to play games at this time,” the NHL’s statement said.

The Lightning followed the Jazz to Boston and Detroit last weekend. NBA and NHL visitors share some of the same locker room space in Boston’s TD Garden, but they have separate spaces in Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena.

The locker rooms are deep cleaned and sanitized between games. Having had no actual contact with an infected person, the Lightning said in a statement, the risk of anyone with the organization contracting the virus is low, no greater than that of the general population. No Lightning personnel had shown symptoms by Thursday, so the team was not subject to being tested, it said. The medical staff communicated with the players.

“It’s scary, though,” said Alex Killorn, the Lightning’s Players Association representative.

Players showed up at Amalie Arena on Thursday morning preparing to play the Flyers that night, one of the 12 regular-season games remaining on the Lightning’s schedule. They went through their usual morning meetings until the league advised teams send players home.

“We were told we were supposed to leave the rink,” Killorn said. “Obviously there were talks in the locker room, trying to figure out what was going on, just rumors. But nothing was concrete until we were told to leave the arena and wait for further notice.”

Players around the league were sent home or back to their hotels. Gear was packed and left in trollies, stuck between going to planes or locker rooms.

“We haven’t been told what’s going to happen, if we’re going to have workouts,” Killorn said. “We’ve been told to go home and we’re going to hear sooner rather than later what the next steps are.”

If the season suspension turns out to be short, perhaps a couple of weeks, the league might pick up the season in April. It could truncate the regular season and then start the playoffs.

If that were the case, the league would likely use points percentage to even the field. Teams have between 11 and 14 games left to play, accounting for about 15 percent of the season. 1180878 Toronto Maple Leafs Bettman told owners the first positive test result by any player would mean “all bets are off.” There are some 700 players among the 31 NHL teams across North America.

Bettman: NHL players in isolation while season is on hold “It was clear to me that no matter what scenario we came up with that we continued to play with, either with or without fans, it was inconceivable, certainly unlikely, that we were going to get through the rest of the regular season at minimum without somebody testing positive,” Bettman JOHN WAWROW AND STEPHEN WHYNO said. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Unlike NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who said his league’s season PUBLISHED 10 HOURS AGO would be suspended at least 30 days, Bettman would not put a time frame on the NHL hiatus. The Stanley Cup is typically awarded in early UPDATED MARCH 13, 2020 June after two months of playoff games.

“I think the scope of what this is still unknown to all of us,” agent Stephen Bartlett told The AP. “I think the only thing that we can counsel people is NHL players are staying away from rinks and self-isolating during the to take a deep breath and take whatever steps necessary and prudent to coronavirus pandemic that has put their season on hold. keep yourself healthy. And rest assured, especially for our athlete Players have been instructed to remain at home in their team’s city and population, that those guys are in the very best of shape.” avoid practice facilities and crowded places. Within the next two weeks, Players are in midseason shape with roughly a dozen games left before they could be allowed to return and skate and work out in small groups the playoffs. while games are not being played. “It’s very difficult for the players, but at the same time, you have to also “What we now asked our clubs and our players to do is to go home, appreciate what’s going on in society,” agent Allan Walsh said. “The isolate to the extent possible for the next few days,” Commissioner Gary players do realize that we’re dealing with a life and death situation for Bettman said Friday. “How many days exactly we’re working on with the many.” medical people. And then we’ll be looking to progress in terms of activities once we get a handle on whether or not anybody in the short Players seem to be on board with the NHL’s response. San Jose Sharks term is going to test positive.” forward Evander Kane tweeted the NHL “has done the right thing in taking this pause to help the risk of spreading this virus.” The NHL and NHL Players’ Association laid out more specific guidelines and sent them to players and teams in a memo read to The Associated Bettman said it is not the NHL’s independent call when to resume play Press by a person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the and did not rule out the possibility of games in empty arenas. Fehr memo is private. expects any decisions on returning to play to be a joint effort between the league and NHLPA. The memo states team facilities are currently closed to players, except those requiring treatment for what the memo refers to as “disabling “During this period, everybody’s trying to do the best they can and to injuries.” The next step, following the direction of health officials, would work things out so that we can stay on the same page and make the be opening the facilities and allowing players to skate and work out in resumption of play as smooth as possible,” Fehr said. small groups. No one really knows what that’ll look like. The NHL is working on a Idealistically, NHLPA executive director Don Fehr said team facilities variety of contingency plans, all of which include trying to play a full 82- would open to players by next week, though he noted there are variables game season in 2020-21 – even if that means starting later. that could push back that timeline. “This is a rapidly evolving situation and there are a lot of unknowns and “I think we’re in a let’s relax and take stock of where we are (mode).” we’ve got to make sure that we understand all the ramifications of Fehr said. “You do as much as you can as soon as you can when everything that’s coming at us and how we respond,” Bettman said.” And conditions permit. But I’m not going to try and guess when that will be. It’ll most of all, we want to do the right things and use common sense.” be as soon as you can.” Globe And Mail LOADED: 03.14.2020 There’s no timetable on when games might resume.

Agent Pat Brisson, who represents Pittsburgh star Sidney Crosby and others, is advising his clients to be safe and take precautions but also open-minded and positive.

“At the end of the day, I do believe we will continue,” Brisson told The AP. “It’s a time to also reflect, whether we have four or five days or a week, you can relax, recharge, recover and realign yourself and reset.”

After announcing Thursday the season would be put on “pause,” Bettman remains optimistic of resuming play and eventually awarding the Stanley Cup.

“That would be the goal,” Bettman said in a phone interview with The AP and the NHL’s website. “Health, safety, well-being of the NHL family, especially and including our fans, is most important. If the business considerations and the money were the only thing, then we and a bunch of others would keep playing.”

Bettman and Fehr each independently said they were not aware of any player testing positive for the new coronavirus. They added they can’t be certain no one is feeling ill or awaiting test results.

A spokesman for the Carolina Hurricanes said broadcaster John Forslund was feeling fine and had not been tested but was self-isolating after using a hotel room previously occupied by someone who tested positive for COVID-19. The NBA’s Utah Jazz, who had players Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell test positive, were at the hotel just before the Hurricanes.

It was Gobert’s positive coronavirus test prior to a game Wednesday night that shifted talk from playing in empty arenas to postponing entirely. 1180879 Toronto Maple Leafs Make the play-ins best-of-three series, and shorten the first-round matchups to best-of-five.

Integrity: Pretty good. In theory, it might take 15 wins (instead of 16) to A one-game Stanley Cup final? Playoffs for everyone? Here’s what the capture the Stanley Cup. If a play-in team goes all the way, though, it post-coronavirus NHL might look like would take 17. It would also let the NHL try out the play-in format for future seasons. With the league heading to 32 teams, there will be calls for more post-season spots. The play-in format is an easy way to go to 20 from 16. By Kevin McGran OK, but ... Fri., March 13, 2020 The timing is too tight, and the NHL determines that rinks either won’t be

available or won’t be playable in the summertime heat, so it tries to get Let’s remain optimistic. Let’s hope for the best. the playoffs all in by the end of June. The remaining schedule is trashed. No play-ins. The league sets matchups based on points percentage to Let’s say as few people as possible get sick from the coronavirus and account for games in hand. that pausing the NHL season does its part. Everyone chips in — from owners and general managers to players and coaches, ticket takers, In the East, this helps the Islanders (80 points in 68 games, 58.8 points popcorn sellers, media and fans. percentage) pass Columbus (81 points, 70 games, 57.9). Blue Jackets fans will be upset, especially when they see the Leafs, with a similar And in, say, a month from now, the NHL can resume its schedule. record, holding down third place in the Atlantic to qualify.

That’s what commissioner Gary Bettman is hoping, though he has no In the West, the Winnipeg Jets (80 points, 71 games, 56.3), currently the specific timetable. first wild card, would fall out of a playoff spot. Nashville and Vancouver (both 78 points, 69 games, 56.5) would leapfrog them. “When we come back — and I believe we will at some point, because I’m an optimist — it’ll be when it’s appropriate and when it’s safe,” Bettman The first round would become a best-of-five — maybe the second round, told Sportsnet 590 The FAN on Friday. too.

The league has set up a task force to figure out how things will look if and Integrity: Not the greatest, but games would be played and a champion when play resumes. crowned.

“We are exploring every contingency,” said Bettman. “We’re looking out A little different in the calendar to see (the latest we can play) and then backing it up, and what are our options … We’re doing all sorts of modelling — whether it’s Start the post-season with best-of-three play-in series. Play the next completing the existing regular season as is, and then a full playoffs, or three rounds at best-of-sevens to determine the conference champions. whether or not based on time constraints we’re going to have to make Then pit the best of the East and West in a one-game Stanley Cup final adjustments and do something different, novel, creative.” at a predetermined site. Say Madison Square Garden — an palace, easy for many fans to get to, and a way for the league to promote It’s like a puzzle. travel (presuming it’s safe by then). It would be appointment viewing: one game, winner take all. “You’ve got to fit the pieces together,” he said. “Although the interesting part of this puzzle is, you don’t know exactly what it’s gonna look like Integrity: It would take 13 or 15 wins (if it’s a play-in team) to capture the when you’re done.” Cup, so not bad. It would draw attention to the league. The innovative start and finish would give the league a look at a format that might work For now, players have been told to stay home. The NHL is working on for the future. contingency plans. Here’s what things might look like when the season resumes. Don’t even think about it

Best case The playoffs start with all 31 teams in some weird round-robin format that gives even the Detroit Red Wings a chance. Ugh. That would be only A month has passed and the NHL simply picks up where it left off — slightly better than no hockey. Also a non-starter: Anything that requires maybe with empty stands, maybe not. The players would probably fewer than 12 wins to win the Cup. reconvene on April 6 for two or three days to tune up for a restart on Thurs. April 9. The hockey wouldn’t necessarily be great, and the final Toronto Star LOADED: 03.14.2020 part of the schedule could feel a bit like pre-season games with a playoff race edge. It would be different.

Playoffs: Everything would be a month later, still with four best-of-seven rounds. The last day possible for the Stanley Cup final was supposed to be June 13. This would make it more like July 11. That would push back everything else — awards night, the NHL draft and free agency — and might even delay the start of next season.

Integrity: As good as it gets. More teams would be at full strength, with players who are currently injured having time to heal.

Not bad

The timing is tight, so the NHL decides to head straight to the playoffs when play resumes. To assuage owners of teams with a real mathematical chance of making the post-season based on games in hand, the league opts for play-ins. That pits:

The Maple Leafs against the Florida Panthers (just three points apart) for third place in the Atlantic Division.

The New York Islanders vs. the Columbus Blue Jackets (one-point gap) for the second wild card in the Eastern Conference.

The Nashville Predators against the Vancouver Canucks (tied) for one Western wild card.

The Winnipeg Jets vs. the Minnesota Wild (three points apart) for the other Western wild-card spot. 1180880 Toronto Maple Leafs It was Gobert’s positive coronavirus test prior to a game Wednesday night that shifted talk from playing in empty arenas to postponing entirely. Bettman told owners the first positive test result by any player would mean “all bets are off.” There are some 700 players among the 31 NHL The NHL announced Thursday it was putting its season on “pause,” but teams across North America. league commissioner Gary Bettman remains optimistic of resuming play and eventually awarding the Stanley Cup. “It was clear to me that no matter what scenario we came up with, that we continued to play with, either with or without fans, it was inconceivable, certainly unlikely, that we were going to get through the rest of the regular season at minimum without somebody testing By Stephen WhynoThe Associated Press positive,” Bettman said. John Wawrow Unlike NBA commissioner Adam Silver, who said his league’s season Fri., March 13, 2020timer4 min. read would be suspended at least 30 days, Bettman would not put a time frame on the NHL hiatus. The Stanley Cup is typically awarded in early June after two months of playoff games.

NHL players are staying away from rinks and self-isolating during the “I think the scope of what this is is still unknown to all of us,” agent coronavirus pandemic that has put their season on hold. Stephen Bartlett told the AP. “I think the only thing that we can counsel people is to take a deep breath and take whatever steps necessary and Players have been instructed to remain at home in their team’s city and prudent to keep yourself healthy. And rest assured, especially for our avoid practice facilities and crowded places. Within the next two weeks, athlete population, that those guys are in the very best of shape.” they could be allowed to return and skate and work out in small groups while games are not being played. Players are in mid-season shape with roughly a dozen games left before the playoffs. “What we now asked our clubs and our players to do is to go home, isolate to the extent possible for the next few days,” commissioner Gary “It’s very difficult for the players, but at the same time, you have to also Bettman said Friday. “How many days exactly, we’re working on with the appreciate what’s going on in society,” agent Allan Walsh said. “The medical people. And then we’ll be looking to progress in terms of players do realize that we’re dealing with a life-and-death situation for activities, once we get a handle on whether or not anybody in the short many.” term is going to test positive.” Players seem to be on board with the NHL’s response. San Jose Sharks The NHL and NHL Players’ Association laid out more specific guidelines forward Evander Kane tweeted the NHL “has done the right thing in and sent them to players and teams in a memo read to The Associated taking this pause to help the risk of spreading this virus.” Press by a person who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the memo is private. Bettman said it is not the NHL’s independent call when to resume play and did not rule out the possibility of games in empty arenas. Fehr The memo states team facilities are currently closed to players, except expects any decisions on returning to play to be a joint effort between the those requiring treatment for what the memo refers to as “disabling league and the NHLPA. injuries.” The next step, following the direction of health officials, would be opening the facilities and allowing players to skate and work out in “During this period, everybody’s trying to do the best they can and to small groups. work things out so that we can stay on the same page and make the resumption of play as smooth as possible,” Fehr said. Ideally, NHLPA executive director Don Fehr said, team facilities would open to players by next week, though he noted there are variables that No one really knows what that will look like. The NHL is working on a could push back that timeline. variety of contingency plans, all of which include trying to play a full 82- game season in 2020-21 — even if that means starting later. “I think we’re in a ‘let’s relax and take stock of where we are’ (mode).” Fehr said. “You do as much as you can as soon as you can when “This is a rapidly evolving situation and there are a lot of unknowns and conditions permit. But I’m not going to try and guess when that will be. It’ll we’ve got to make sure that we understand all the ramifications of be as soon as you can.” everything that’s coming at us and how we respond,” Bettman said. “And most of all, we want to do the right things and use common sense.” There’s no timetable on when games might resume. Toronto Star LOADED: 03.14.2020 YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN...

Agent Pat Brisson, who represents Pittsburgh star Sidney Crosby and others, is advising his clients to be safe and take precautions, but also open-minded and positive.

“At the end of the day, I do believe we will continue,” Brisson told the AP. “It’s a time to also reflect, whether we have four or five days or a week, you can relax, recharge, recover and realign yourself and reset.”

After announcing Thursday the season would be put on “pause,” Bettman remains optimistic of resuming play and eventually awarding the Stanley Cup.

“That would be the goal,” Bettman said in a phone interview. “Health, safety, well-being of the NHL family, especially and including our fans, is most important. If the business considerations and the money were the only thing, then we and a bunch of others would keep playing.”

Bettman and Fehr each independently said they were not aware of any player testing positive for the new coronavirus. They added they can’t be certain no one is feeling ill or awaiting test results.

A spokesman for the Carolina Hurricanes said broadcaster John Forslund was feeling fine and had not been tested, but was self-isolating after using a hotel room previously occupied by someone who tested positive for COVID-19. The NBA’s Utah Jazz, who had players Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell test positive, were at the hotel just before the Hurricanes. 1180881 Toronto Maple Leafs was turfed in Arizona with the Leafs wilting under a six-game losing streak and out of a playoff spot.

It had become evident the Leafs couldn’t go from good to great under Leafs had expected playoff spot when NHL hit pause, even if path had Babcock. A few days after the firing, we reported that Babcock once had twists and turns Mitch Marner, a rookie at the time, rank the team from hardest-working to laziest, and then showed Marner’s list to other players. That led to the publication of mistreatment of players by other coaches, and resulted in the firing of Bill Peters in Calgary, while others were held to greater Terry Koshan accountability. Published:March 13, 2020 In Toronto, the hiring of was viewed as a new lease — Updated:March 13, 2020 9:35 PM EDT that’s how defenceman Tyson Barrie put it — and the players responded accordingly, winning three in a row and, weeks later, winning nine of 10 to get back on a square footing.

When the National Hockey League returns is anyone’s guess. While there were bumps under Keefe, the fact remains he coached the club to a record of 27-15-5 before the pause. Usage of players has been And in what form? Finish the regular season? Scrap the end of the key, most notably giving Matthews and Mitch Marner a legitimate regular season and go directly into the playoffs? Have the clubs currently opportunity to grow on the same line, and Keefe was able to keep the in or near wild-card spots square off against each other to determine final team’s head above water as injuries to integral players such as Morgan playoff positions? Rielly and Jake Muzzin bit into productivity. Or, God forbid, the option that no one really wants to contemplate: There Still, even as the Leafs tried to forge an identity, they were able to keep a is no Stanley Cup and have a good summer, see you in September for grip on a playoff spot. As alarming as it might be for players to training camp. acknowledge the Leafs are “a difficult team to get a read on,” as Zach Nothing in the way of a concrete timeline is known as the COVID-19 virus Hyman said on Tuesday, what should be kept in mind is they continued has become a pandemic, forcing the world of professional and amateur to win more than lose, even through the inconsistencies. sports to hit pause, stop or suspend. And remember, too, the Leafs do believe in their potential. If the NHL can get back on the ice in time to have some sort of Stanley Fingers crossed the NHL returns this spring and the Leafs have a chance Cup tournament, we know the Maple Leafs will be part of it, given their to act on that belief. place in the Atlantic Division standings. Toronto Sun LOADED: 03.14.2020 Had we told anyone back when training camp started in St. John’s in the middle of last September that, yes, at mid-March and with a dozen games to play, the Leafs would be in a playoff spot, the response might have been something along the lines of: “Big deal. We knew that was going to happen.”

The road taken by the Leafs to that point, however? Few would have predicted how the 2019-20 season unfolded.

To a degree, the bookends are Auston Matthews, for completely different reasons. Toward the end of September, news broke that he was facing a charge of disorderly conduct in his off-season home of Scottsdale, Ariz. Though the matter eventually was settled and the charge dismissed, there was initial embarrassment for the club when it became clear Matthews hadn’t informed management of the situation before it became public.

John Tavares was named captain on opening night, leading to speculation that the legal issues cost Matthews the captaincy. The Leafs, however, insisted that Tavares had been the choice all along.

Matthews kept a stiff upper lip, saying he needed to keep his focus on the ice. And he did exactly that, scoring five goals in the first three games to begin a season that would see him steam toward 50, leaving him three shy at 47 when the season was paused on Thursday.

Matthews’ 80 points not only are a career-high after his previous best of 73 last season, they were enough to be leading the Leafs in scoring and to put him ninth in the NHL. Matthews was tied for second in the NHL in takeaways and, at 55%, he was 21st overall in the faceoff circle. At the age of 22, Matthews was settling in nicely as one of the premier centres in the NHL, demonstrating a greater affinity for using his 6-foot-3, 220- pound body, never mind his skills, to his advantage.

As much as Leafs fans are depressed that the season has been paused, the thought of Matthews’ growth should be an optimistic reminder of what will continue when play resumes.

All due respect to David Ayres, who became the most famous eight-save goaltender in NHL history when he came on as an emergency backup for the Carolina Hurricanes to help beat Toronto on Feb. 22, the biggest story involving the Leafs was the firing of coach Mike Babcock on Nov. 20 and the fallout that resulted.

Shoved aside four years and six months after he signed an eight-year contract to guide Toronto — and we recognize the work he did in bringing a level of respect back to an organization that had been absent since the days of the late Pat Quinn — Babcock had worn out his welcome and 1180882 Toronto Maple Leafs Daly is not insisting on mandatory COVID-19 testing for players at this time, unless they show symptoms. Don Fehr, executive director of the NHLPA, told The Associated Press on Friday a similar memo is being sent. NHL hopes 2020-21 season can be 'normal' MORE DARK ARENAS

To the long list of pro leagues which have declared a halt in play, add Lance Hornby Finland’s Liga, which pulled the plug Thursday. In Europe, that only leaves only the KHL running, which actually was the first affected by Published:March 13, 2020 COVID-19 weeks ago when a few home games for Kunlun Red Star in Updated:March 13, 2020 8:40 PM EDT Beijing, China, were moved to Russia.

The IIHF also announced the world under-18 championship, scheduled for April 16-26 in Plymouth and Ann Arbor, Mich., was cancelled, no Leafs had expected playoff spot when NHL hit pause, even if path had doubt disappointing many amateur scouts. twists and ... ICE CHIPS Gary Bettman can’t tell people how the 2019-20 season will end. A part-time employee at San Jose’s SAP Center, who last worked at a But unless COVID-19 is still raging in the summer, he’s counting on ’20- game on March 3 against the visiting Maple Leafs, tested positive for 21 to begin on time and run its usual course. COVID-19 the Sharks announced Friday. He has recovered … Scratch the Hockey Hall Of Fame off the list of Spring Break attractions for kids Read between the lines of the commissioner’s comments on Sportsnet and families. The museum and the home of the Stanley Cup announced on Friday and it’s obvious the NHL has a time frame in mind where the a COVID-19-related closure beginning Saturday through at least April 6 current pandemic either shortens or fully scrubs the current campaign. In … New Jersey Devils owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer joined teams the case of the former, to ensure a Stanley Cup winner, it would mean planning to paying hourly/event staff for postponed games at Prudential moving to playoffs without completing all scheduled games or revising Center and other arena events. “Employees are family, it’s important to the post-season format. band together and lift each other up during these times.” read a “Whatever we do with this season, I’m expecting next season to be a statement. Harris and Blitzer also own the Philadelphia 76ers and Crystal normal season,” Bettman said. “First of all, this is a unique situation, it Palace FC of the English Premier League …Panthers goalie Sergei transcends the NHL, it transcends sports. This is hopefully a once-in-a- Bobrovsky is donating $100,000 US to all part-time staff at Florida’s BB & lifetime thing for all of us. We are looking at every contingency and T Center during the pause. Teammates will match that with ownership what’s doable, so everything is on the table for consideration. (But) it putting in the balance. doesn’t mean they’re going to happen. What’s an option today, there may Toronto Sun LOADED: 03.14.2020 be different options, fewer or more, who knows, by next week.”

So just because teams are looking at building availability in July, it’s part of their due diligence and not a guarantee the league intends to risk playing on potentially chippy ice in hot spots such as Tampa Bay, Dallas and Washington, where average summer temperatures are more than 30C.

With a longer-range look, the league wants events such as the draft in Montreal, now scheduled for June 26-27, not to be competing with playoffs, nor the July 1 start of free agency and the new fiscal year.

IN COURT CONCERT?

Bettman was also asked whether the NHL would return to play when the NBA does, or vice-versa, given his decision to shutter came less than 24 hours after the hoopsters. Teams in the two leagues share many arenas.

“We both have to make our own decisions (though) we’re relying on the same medical information,” Bettman said. “The real issue — and we’ve already agreed to do it — we’re making sure we’re not tripping over each other as we try and schedule when we both come back.

“One of the factors in my decision Wednesday night was there were a couple of (NHL) teams in the visiting locker room where the Utah Jazz (and the infected Rudy Gobert) used the same room (the Capitals in Madison Square Garden and the Lightning in Boston in Detroit). I concluded it was only a matter of time before one of our players tested positive if we continued to play.”

NHL: STAY PUT

NHL players are back in their home team cities and urged to remain there by the league, but deputy commissioner Bill Daly said Friday that some can return to families based elsewhere. However, players are being asked to self-quarantine for a few days, wherever they are.

“Obviously, where a player is separated from his family because his club city residence is only temporary, those players should be permitted to go home in this initial phase of the pause period,” Daly said.

No green-light date has been given for players to return to club facilities and begin training. Some will likely go stir crazy by Monday.

“We envision there coming a time where we transition from ‘stay at home’ to opening club facilities to work out and skate on a voluntary basis in small groups, similar to what we generally see prior to training camps,” Daly said. “At this point, I’m not in a position to say when that will be. We will see how the next week or so plays out.” 1180883 Toronto Maple Leafs change as this stretches on and there’s more information available. We’re in dialogue with the club about the next steps.

As for how this all affects the team should games resume, there are a Mirtle: On the Maple Leafs, the coronavirus shutdown and what might few small bits of information I can offer. come next 1. The playoff format

My understanding is that there is growing support at the governor and/or By James Mirtle Mar 13, 2020 GM level for there to be some sort of play-in system to get into the NHL playoffs — assuming they take place — and that’s something that would likely affect the Leafs.

Well. What could happen? The teams with the top eight to 10 records in the league are granted an automatic berth, and then clubs more on the I’d apologize for not having much Maple Leafs coverage of late, but that bubble, like Toronto, would have to fight through either sudden death doesn’t really feel appropriate under the circumstances. Our biggest games or best-of-three series to qualify as one of the final 16 teams in concern at the Canadian wing of The Athletic the past few days has been the postseason. employee safety — getting everyone home from trips to the U.S. and accounted for. (Kaitlyn McGrath, our Jays beat writer, is on a plane back That’s viewed as a “fairer” method of deciding who would get into the from Florida as I type this, our last straggler returning over the border.) postseason than simply using the current standings, as teams had no idea they were playing for their playoff lives when the last games were We have several staff who are sick, including those who have been played Wednesday night. Imagine the fuss teams like Columbus, tested and some who are waiting to be tested. Because of how Winnipeg or the Rangers might raise if they were eliminated without even extensively we travel for work, many of us — including Jonas Siegel and a chance to play another game. I — have been in the so-called COVID-19 hot spots in the past few weeks. What might ultimately play out is the Leafs and Panthers square off for the right to third place in the Atlantic, with the winner of that game (or The Leafs’ last road trip before the shutdown was, after all, through short series) then moving on to face the Lightning in “Round 1” of a California, and I spent three days at our head office in San Francisco, a revised playoff format. city in which the infection has been particularly invasive. After all, the Leafs were on pace to finish with just two more points than Regular listeners of the podcast know that last month I was in bad shape, the Panthers in the standings — 95 to 93. Is that really enough of a having lost my voice. It turned out that was strep throat and needed separation to give one team a shot at the Stanley Cup and to eliminate antibiotic treatment, so I went into all of this travel at less than 100 another? percent. I don’t believe I have the virus, but I can’t entirely rule it out, either. So quarantine begins. This is all still way up in the air, given the timelines are so uncertain. We could be looking at months without games, which would leave the NHL I know many of you out there are in similar circumstances, with a lot of with difficult decisions to make in May or June as to how to proceed. uncertainty around your health, your job and your children. And in the Maybe only eight teams get to play in the playoffs and the Leafs are face of that, the sports world feels very trivial. (And it is!) But I’m going to simply eliminated without getting to play another game. write a bit about the Leafs here because that’s what we do. Not having a postseason at all would mean the NHL left hundreds of The Leafs are all in a loose type of self-quarantine at this point. Players millions of dollars on the table, however. At a minimum, I could see the were told not to travel or go to crowded bars or restaurants as they wait league trying to play games without fans in the buildings as a way of this out, a period of “social distancing” while NHL officials keep an eye on salvaging the playoffs, which would at least secure advertising and TV how the virus spreads throughout North America. revenues during the tournament. Players are not allowed to go to the rink — either or That’s assuming the self-quarantines over the next few weeks work and the practice rink in Etobicoke, both of which have been ghost towns. no players get sick. They currently don’t have any way to work out or stay in shape, other than whatever they can do in their living rooms, as the quarantine 2. The cap and free agency includes all team and public facilities. The loss of revenue from cutting out 189 regular-season games and who The league believes some players are carrying the virus already, knows how many for the playoffs could be very substantial. I’ve heard although there have been no positive tests. I’m still awaiting word on estimates of anywhere from $350 million to $550 million, which could be whether the Leafs tested their players, but it sounds like, generally anywhere from 6 to 10 percent of total revenues, depending on how high speaking, the NHL is waiting for them to exhibit symptoms before going they were headed above last year’s $5.09 billion total. that route. That doesn’t include losses that could come to the NHL’s advertising or The Raptors, meanwhile, have been tested, given their direct exposure to TV deals as a result of playing fewer games than the various outside the Utah Jazz earlier this week. The early indications are good. entities bargained for.

All 31 NHL GMs have a conference call with the league Saturday Those shortfalls would result in very high escrow deductions from afternoon to discuss the next steps. At this point, they want to continue to paycheques, higher than the 14 percent players have been giving up keep players in their “home” cities — where the team plays — outside of most of the season. And that money likely wouldn’t be coming back, extenuating circumstances like players who are away from their families unlike the small refunds players have received over the past several due to recent trades. (I don’t believe the Leafs have anyone in this boat.) years.

The NHL is trying to find a way to, at some point, let players skate and If the NHL can play a full postseason, however, the financial losses work out in small groups without creating additional risk, which simply would be greatly mitigated, as all the league would lose would be 15 might not be possible at this early stage. One source suggested to me percent of the regular-season gate revenue. today that they might let them do so as individuals, staggering the times they could be on the ice or in the gym throughout the day. They’re No matter what, however, the league is looking at a low-revenue year, looking at everything right now. which under normal circumstances would mean a reduced salary cap the following season. If players cannot skate and work out during the hiatus, however, the NHL cannot even think about resuming play until giving them time to get into I don’t think that necessarily has to happen here, however. The salary- game shape. This is why hopes that the season “pause” that began cap calculation is tied directly to revenue from the previous season as a Thursday will last only three weeks seem so optimistic. natural course of the collective bargaining agreement, but the NHL and NHLPA aren’t forced to use that calculation in every circumstance. They You’ll note how quiet the Leafs have been on social media and in the didn’t coming out of the 2012-13 season that was shortened because of press so far. I’ve seen some tweets and Instas from players on other the lockout. teams, but not Toronto. That’s by design, as there hasn’t yet been media access to Leafs staff or players in this early period. I imagine that will If both sides are confident the league will bounce back in September and have a relatively normal 2020-21 revenue-wise, they could simply opt for a flat cap — or even something slightly higher. There’s nothing that boxes them into a punishing drop, as the novel coronavirus impact is likely a one-time act of God that won’t come into play in the years to come. (We all hope, anyway.)

I’ll be very surprised, in other words, if next season’s salary cap is dramatically lower than the current $81.5 million. Which is good news for the Leafs, who are going to be tight to whatever the ceiling is yet again.

3. The Leafs roster

Again, it feels odd talking about this, given everything else that is going on in the world. This is a trivial topic but one I’ll address briefly nonetheless.

This shutdown — of whatever length — could plausibly help the Leafs if the NHL is able to resume and play playoff games at some point. As has been well documented all season, Toronto has had a host of injuries — placing them among the five most beat-up teams in the NHL — and we went into March not knowing how many of their key players were going to be healthy for the stretch run and postseason.

Any additional time to recover is going to greatly benefit Jake Muzzin and Ilya Mikheyev, who were expected back from serious hand and wrist injuries right around early April when the playoffs were scheduled to start. It will probably also help Morgan Rielly and Cody Ceci, who only recently returned to play after missing significant time with injuries.

There’ll definitely be a rest-versus-rust debate for every NHL team in the event of a two-month layoff before games are played. But getting Muzzin and Mikheyev — their second-highest-minute defenceman and one of their most effective two-way wingers — back fully healthy wouldn’t be an inconsequential factor for a team that has lacked depth of late.

A break like this could also serve as a reset for a Leafs team that has been hugely inconsistent the past few months. That probably benefits them more than teams like Boston and Tampa that have been rolling over opponents of late.

I’m not saying they’d be favourites or anything, but some X-factors are coming into play here for Toronto as everyone sits on the sidelines.

A final note: We here at The Athletic are not going anywhere. We intend on continuing to produce best-in-class coverage regardless of how long this layoff lasts and have been hard at work the past couple of days coming up with ways we can continue to entertain and inform our subscribers.

If there are stories you would like to see us pursue, let us know in the comments or on social media.

Thank you, as always, for your support. We’ve built something special with your help the past 3 1/2 years covering this team, and while this next period will be a challenge and filled with uncertainty, I fully believe our staff is up for it.

Here’s wishing safe passage for you and your families in the weeks to come. Hopefully we’ve got better days ahead.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020

1180884 Vegas Golden Knights

Golden Knights’ Ryan Reaves and Nate Schmidt appear on ‘Bar Rescue’

By David Schoen

March 13, 2020 - 10:15 PM

Two hockey players walk into a bar …

What sounds like the start of most stories told around the rink actually is the newest episode of “Bar Rescue” that premiers Sunday and features Ryan Reaves and Nate Schmidt of the Golden Knights.

The popular NHL players appear on the show starring Las Vegan Jon Taffer that airs on Paramount Network.

Reaves and Schmidt are used as decoys by Taffer and his staff at a bar in Layton, Utah, that is four days away from closing.

LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180885 Vegas Golden Knights “Obviously it’s conceivable that we’ll play beyond the time we were originally scheduled to conclude. How much longer we could do that is something we’re trying to determine, and not just what the timing of all this might be. We also are considering what playing alternatives there are NHL monitors ‘rapidly evolving situation’ with coronavirus pandemic that fit within the window that may be left.

“And so it’s a bit of a puzzle, and part of the problem is, we don’t know what all the pieces are yet.” By David Schoen Bettman has yet to address how the stoppage might affect the Stanley March 13, 2020 - 6:15 PM Cup Playoffs, the NHL Awards on June 17 in Las Vegas, the NHL Draft (June 26-27 in Montreal), the start of free agency or the start of the 2020- 21 season. Golden Knights players addressed fans through social media for the first time Friday since the NHL season was paused. “No matter how this turns out, there will be a material negative consequence to the business, and that may be important on some level,” The team released a compilation video on its Twitter account that Bettman said to NHL.com. “But it’s secondary to the first goal, which (is included comments from seven players. In addition, statements from making) sure that we’re doing the right thing for everybody’s safety and alternate captain Reilly Smith and newly acquired Nick Cousins were well-being.” made public. LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL LOADED: 03.14.2020 “There is nothing we love more than playing in front of our amazing fans and even though it’s tough to not be on the ice, we support the NHL’s decision to pause the season,” Smith said in his statement. “We know this is a very difficult time for many people, and we hope you are prioritizing your health and safety. We are looking forward to playing for you again soon.”

The league suspended its season indefinitely Thursday as part of the sports world’s efforts to help slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

Players were instructed to follow experts’ recommendations for social distancing, and commissioner Gary Bettman told NHL.com Friday the league is assessing all its options for the “rapidly evolving situation.”

The Knights flew back from Minnesota and arrived on Thursday evening after their game against the Wild was postponed.

“While we are disappointed to not be playing at the moment, we understand the circumstances impacting the world are far bigger than hockey right now,” Cousins said in his statement. “Our hope is that all our fans and their families are staying safe and healthy during this difficult time, and we can’t wait to be back on the ice competing for a chance at the Stanley Cup soon.”

Marc-Andre Fleury, Nick Holden, Nate Schmidt, Zach Whitecloud, Paul Stastny, Deryk Engelland, and William Karlsson all produced videos with personal statements.

“This is sad we can’t be playing hockey right now, but it’s better for everyone’s health,” Fleury said while holding his infant son. “Looking forward to seeing you guys back in the Fortress. Be safe.”

“I know we’re all disappointed we can’t be playing hockey right now, but we believe the NHL has made the right decision,” Holden said. “Hopefully we can continue our season soon. But until then, stay healthy and safe.”

“We’re all very disappointed we can’t play right now, but most important is everyone’s health,” Karlsson said. “I’d also like to say we look forward to hopefully playing in front of you guys and see you soon back at the Fortress. Take care.”

Bettman confirmed to NHL.com that to his knowledge, no player or employee had tested positive for COVID-19.

Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert tested positive prior to a game Wednesday, prompting the NBA to suspend its season until further notice. Gobert’s teammate Donovan Mitchell subsequently tested positive for the virus, as well.

Bettman told NHL.com he formed a task force of senior executives that “meets twice a day to discuss every conceivable issue that we could be dealing with.”

Unlike NBA commissioner Adam Silver, who expects his league to be on hiatus for at least 30 days, Bettman declined to give a minimum length for the pause.

“There’s no reason at this point in time to preclude any of our options, even though we don’t know what they are yet,” Bettman said. “We’re looking at every conceivable alternative.

”We’re looking at the calendar. We’re looking at what we think is and isn’t doable in terms of a time frame to continue to play. 1180886 Vegas Golden Knights

Celebrate Reuben Sandwich Day with Alex Tuch’s version

By Al Mancini

March 13, 2020 - 4:55 PM

Saturday is National Reuben Sandwich Day. And if you’re a Golden Knights fan, you can celebrate that with the version Alex Tuch insisted be added to the menu at Wolfgang Puck Players Locker, where he and several teammates are partners.

The right wing, who was born in Syracuse and now has a cottage in New York’s Thousand Islands, explains that he grew up with the sandwich.

“The Reuben actually originated, I’m almost positive, in upstate New York, because of the Thousand Island dressing that goes on the Reuben. So the Reuben is one of the staples of upstate New York. And it was always kind of like a comfort food to me.”

As a connoisseur of the Reuben, he said he was never able to find one locally that compared to the ones his mom made. So he was excited to see what Puck and his team would create. He first tried their spin on the classic the day before the restaurant’s soft opening in January. He says his first impressions were that “they did a great job capturing kind of that hearty, full of meat, juicy Reuben that I always remember.” But, he says, the texture of that first sandwich was just a bit off.

“It was a little different for me, because it had a little bit more of a crunch. And now it’s actually changed, and the bread’s become a little bit softer, which is what I like. I mean, nothing’s perfect the first time. They just did a great job with it and they kept making it better. And I’ve been happy with it every single time I go in there.”

He’s not the only Golden Knight who likes it.

“Shea Theodore took a bite of mine. And I think he had something else ordered. And he was like ‘No, I want to change to a Reuben.’ ”

For those who want to celebrate the “holiday,” Wolfgang Puck Players Locker will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday. And while it will continue to operate during normal business hours moving forward, it will also be adding a new home and office delivery service next week, in addition to the existing pick-up option, in response to coronavirus concerns.

LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180887 Vegas Golden Knights

Sports Events Workers Looking For Freelance Jobs Amid Sports Industry Shutdown Caused By Coronavirus Pandemic

March 13, 2020

By Alan Snel

The shutdown of sports and entertainment events because of the coronavirus pandemic means the freelance work for DJs, emcees, ushers, concessions workers and venue workers have dried up in Las Vegas.

In other cities, NBA players such as Kevin Love of the Cleveland Cavaliers donated $100,000 to help pay for the lost wages of workers at the Cavaliers’ arena, while the New Orleans’ Pelicans’ Zion Williamson has pledged to cover the salaries lost by workers at the Pelicans’ venue, Smoothie King Center.

Here in Las Vegas, NHL Golden Knights have game crew workers who have lost work from sports events closing down. They went on social media to explain their plights like Joe Green who does DJ work at VGK games, David Schlager who does camera work at games for several local teams including VGK and Jake Wagner who handles music selections at VGK games and other sports events.

Carnell Johnson

LVSportsBiz.com also caught up with Carnell Johnson, known by the nickname, “Golden Pipes,” for singing the national anthem at Golden Knights games at T-Mobile Arena. Here’s a Facebook post of his situation:

Schlager is a hard-working events workers who totes a video camera on his shoulder and captures the Images you see on arena scoreboards at T-Mobile Arena, Thomas & Mack Center and Cashman Field. Here’s his Facebook post about his situation.

Wagner is an encyclopedia of music and works sports events in Las Vegas. He posted this on Twitter:

Green handles the DJ work. He explained on social media that no events, no shows, no gatherings mean no work.

In Detroit, a $1 million fund has been set up by Ilitch Conpanies, which own the Tigers and Red Wings.

“The Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, 313 Presents, Fox Theatre, and Little Caesars Arena have set up a $1 million fund to cover one month’s wages for our part-time staff for games, concerts, and events that they would have otherwise worked were it not for the recent cancellations and postponements caused by the coronavirus crisis. In other words, if they were scheduled to work at an event that has been cancelled in the next month, they will be paid. Where there are opportunities, arena staff will be moved into other roles,” according to the Ilitch Companies News Hub..

In South Florida, NHL Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky is donating $100,000 to the part-time employees at BB&T Center in west Broward County:

LVSportsBiz.com LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180888 Washington Capitals

NHL asks all players to self-quarantine in team cities amid virus

By Adam Zielonka - The Washington Times - Friday, March 13, 2020

All NHL players have been asked to self-quarantine in their teams’ cities “for now” due to the coronavirus outbreak, reports said Friday.

TSN hockey insider Pierre LeBrun reported that the league and the players association agreed to guidelines during the current, indefinite suspension of the NHL season.

The memo sent to all teams reportedly said teams could be allowed to skate in small groups “at some point,” and a mini-camp would precede the resumption

NHL/NHLPA signed off on memo around 5 p.m. ET, guidelines:

1) Players for now asked to self-quarantine in their home NHL cities;

2) At some point TBD, players may skate at NHL facility in small groups;

3) Near the end, plans for mini camp before (if) season resumes.

According to these guidelines, a player like Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals must stay at his home in Virginia, rather than head to Russia or travel to his home in Miami. However, he could request approval to return to Russia to see his family.

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has said the league hopes to resume the 2019-20 season and eventually award the Stanley Cup. The form that may take, though, is up in the air.

“We’re doing all sorts of modeling, whether it’s completing the existing regular season as is and then a full playoffs, or whether or not based on time constraints we’re going to have to make adjustments and do something different, novel, creative,” Bettman told Sportsnet Friday.

ESPN reported Friday that players will receive their final three paychecks of the season, according to NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly.

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Ted Leonsis to pay arena workers after Wizards, Capitals games are canceled

By Matthew Paras - The Washington Times - Friday, March 13, 2020

Monumental Sports and Entertainment CEO and Chairman Ted Leonsis will pay arena workers through at least the end of March while the NBA and NHL seasons are indefinitely suspended.

Leonsis, owner of the Washington Wizards and Capitals, will pay 500 part-time employees for the 16 events that were either canceled or postponed due to concerns about the coronavirus, according to multiple reports. Leonsis announced Thursday that all events at Capital One Arena, where the Wizards and the Capitals play, would be postponed “until further notice.”

Other teams have taken similar actions as the Atlanta Hawks and Dallas Mavericks agreed to pay their hourly workers while the NBA season is suspended. NBA stars such as Kevin Love, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Zion Williamson announced donations to cover workers’ wages.

Leonsis told The Washington Post the NBA and NHL had to have a “great level of empathy” toward the workers.

He also said part-time employees will be paid again for games that are rescheduled if they work the events.

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Capitals' Tom Wilson adopts puppy, Cavs' Kevin Love pledges 100K to arena workers

By Jordan Giorgio March 13, 2020 1:48 PM

Here are the best three viral moments in sports today:

1. Wilson graced our timelines with a big announcement on Instagram that he has adopted a brand new pup named Halle. The two wished everyone good health in response to the coronavirus outbreak.

2. In other Capitals news, we have an Ovi Jr. upon us. Alex Ovechkin’s little one Sergei was caught learning the art of the from his father, who better to learn it from?!

3. And finally, in a very weird and eerie time in the sports world, people are still coming together to help those in need In the latest act of kindness, Cleveland Cavaliers star Kevin Love pledged $100K dollars to aid arena workers who will be affected by the NBA's response to suspend the league due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180891 Washington Capitals about the tripping calls (meaning I went into the settings and adjusted the sliders for fewer trips).

Perlini would score on the two-man advantage but that was Detroit's lone NHL 20 Caps simulation: Penalty kill saves Washington in sloppy win power play goal as the Caps killed off the other five opportunities. over Detroit 2. Lars Eller

The Tiger would score twice including a shorthanded goal that proved to By J.J. Regan March 13, 2020 6:00 AM be the game-winner. Off a neutral zone draw, Siegenthaler aggressively carried the puck into the offensive zone rather than clearing it and passed to Hagelin. Three Red Wings got caught puck watching and converged on Hagelin as Eller went to the net. Hagelin found him all The NHL's season may be on hold, but the Hiatus Hockey League (HHL) alone and he deked the puck past Jonathan Bernier. is in full swing! The idea is a simple one, with the NHL season suspended due to fears over the coronavirus, let's play out each Capitals 3. Braden Holtby game on the scheduled days with the EA Sports game NHL 20 and see what happens. The first game Washington officially missed came on Finding a way to play defense in a way that would not result in a tripping Thursday against the Detroit Red Wings. penalty proved difficult so Detroit found a lot of open opportunities in high-danger areas, but Holtby was able to save 23 out of 25 shots. His Here we go... best came in the second period when a puck hit off Siegenthaler to the goal line and Holtby got a glove on it and pulled it back to safety. Lines Other notes For this first game, I stuck with the lines head coach Todd Reirden looked like he was going to use based on Wednesday's practice: Computer refs can be just as confusing as the real ones

Alex Ovechkin - Evgeny Kuznetsov - Tom Wilson This game is so realistic, it comes with its own controversial calls. Larkin delivered a hit to Ovechkin that replay shows hit him square in the head Jakub Vrana - Nicklas Backstrom - T.J. Oshie and there was no call on the play. Carl Hagelin - Lars Eller - Ilya Kovalchuk Come on, ref. He gets Ovechkin right in the head! Richard Panik - Nic Dowd - Larkin even knocked Ovechkin's helmet off with the hit. Michal Kempny - John Carlson There's no word yet on whether Larkin will face a hearing from the Brenden Dillon - Dmitry Orlov Department of Player Safety for the hit.

Jonas Siegenthaler - Nick Jensen Don't blame me

Braden Holtby started. Eller wasn't on the ice when Dowd scored the empty-netter so that's why I didn't get him the puck for the hat trick. The computer Orlov seemed about as comfortable playing on the right side as the real Orlov. Dillon ended up playing on the right side so much I Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 03.14.2020 had to double-check to make sure I had put him at left defenseman and not the right. I doubt we are going to see much of Orlov playing on the right side for the rest of the HHL.

Result: Caps 4, Red Wings 2

1st period

No goals

2nd period

1-0 Caps goal: Lars Eller from Tom Wilson and Carl Hagelin

2-0 Caps goal: Evgeny Kuznetsov from John Carlson

3-0 Caps goal (shorthanded): Lars Eller from Carl Hagelin and Jonas Siegenthaler

3rd period

3-1 Red Wings goal: Dylan Larkin, unassisted

3-2 Red Wings goal (power play): Brendan Perlini from Filip Hronek and Gustav Lindstrom

4-2 Caps goal (empty net): Nic Dowd from Brenden Dillon

How the Caps won

1. The penalty kill

I wondered how realistic this would actually seem and then Kuznetsov was called for a trip in the first minute of the game. Given the team's recent penalty struggles, that felt about right.

The Caps had only one power play, but gave up six opportunities to the Red Wings. Things really got off the rails in the third period when Washington, trying to hold onto a 3-1 lead, took three penalties in short succession giving Detroit a lot of 5-on-3 time to work with. Wilson was called for unsportsmanlike conduct for trying to fight Larkin who had caught Ovechkin with a high hit to the head. Siegenthaler was called for tripping 27 seconds later and Eller was also called for tripping just 17 seconds after that. It was at that point that Reirden tore into the refs 1180892 Washington Capitals

Ted Leonsis will pay part-time staff at Capital One Arena through March 31

By Tarik El-Bashir Mar 13, 2020

On Thursday, Capitals and Wizards owner Ted Leonsis wrapped up a post on his blog about the coronavirus pandemic with, “Please stay safe and take care of each other.”

On Friday, he followed through on his words.

Leonsis, the billionaire founder of Monumental Sports and Entertainment, will continue to pay part-time staff at Capital One Arena, who already were scheduled to work through March 31, even though the arena is set to remain dark until further notice.

The NHL and NBA announced this week that they’re suspending play indefinitely to help stem the spread of the virus. Meantime, Leonsis announced Thursday afternoon on Ted’s Take that Capital One Arena – one of the world’s busiest entertainment venues – won’t be hosting any events during the crisis.

That means seven Caps games, five Wizards games and three other events, including a Billie Eilish concert that were scheduled for this month, will not go on as scheduled.

The postponements and/or cancellations could have impacted the paychecks of nearly 500 hourly workers, which includes ushers, greeters, ticket takers and others who are essential to game-night operations. Many are longtime employees.

The first event at Capital One Arena affected by the coronavirus postponements was Red Wings versus Capitals on Thursday. Staffers slated to work that night will be paid as though the game was played. If the postponed game is played at a later date, employees will be paid again for working the makeup.

What happens if Capital One Arena remains dark into April or beyond? Like so much else with this still-evolving and fast-moving situation, that’s unclear at the moment, sources said.

Over the past 24 hours, several teams and players in the NHL and NBA have made gestures similar to Leonsis’.

Owners of Anaheim Ducks, San Jose Sharks, Pittsburgh Penguins, Tampa Bay Lightning, New Jersey Devils, Detroit Red Wings and Dallas Stars, as well as many NBA clubs, committed to paying event night staffers at their respective buildings during the virus disruption. In addition, Giannis Antetokounmpo of the , Kevin Love of the Cleveland Cavaliers, as well as Florida Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky each pledged $100,000 to help workers at their teams’ arenas.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180893 Winnipeg Jets As a result, we may never find out just how far this Jets team might have been able to go. Small potatoes in the grand scheme of life, of course. But it would still sting for all those who had invested in the journey to date and couldn't wait to see what comes next. Jets' page-turner of a season in limbo No, I'm not suggesting this group is the 1994 Montreal Expos. Remember them? They were sitting in the Major League Baseball penthouse, at 74- 40, when the season abruptly shut down due to a player strike. It never By: Mike McIntyre | Posted: 03/13/2020 7:00 PM resumed.

And the Expos, enjoying their best year ever in 26 years of existence, The Winnipeg Jets were writing a pretty compelling story, one filled with never got a chance to compete for the World Series many pundits had enough emotional swings, heroes and villains and unexpected them winning. developments to keep you on the edge of your seat. Swing and a big, painful miss. But now we're all staring at a blank page, not knowing when, or if, any With the Jets decisive win over the Edmonton Oilers on Wednesday their more chapters will be penned in the 2019-20 NHL season. fourth straight victory, the team was trending in the right direction as it What if we never find out how this was all going to end? headed into the home stretch of the season.

Thursday's indefinite shutdown of the NHL, along with pretty much every With the Jets decisive win over the Edmonton Oilers on Wednesday their other sport at every other level, couldn't have come at a worse time for fourth straight victory, the team was trending in the right direction as it the local hockey club. They had won a season-high four straight games, headed into the home stretch of the season. including an impressive 4-2 victory in Edmonton Wednesday night that In that sense, teams like the Boston Bruins (100 points, leading the NHL) put them back into a playoff spot. and the St. Louis Blues (defending champs, 94 points, second in the After resembling a MASH unit at times this season, they were finally NHL) would be especially sore this year, although unlike the Expos they healthy, with every regular player except Bryan Little back in the lineup. have a much more impressive recent track record to at least take some Throw in trade-deadline additions in defenceman Dylan DeMelo and solace in. forward Cody Eakin and this was the deepest Jets roster we'd seen all The Jets, for what it's worth, sat tied for 14th in the NHL standings at the season. time the pause button was hit, with a 37-28-6 record and 80 points. Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck was having a Vezina-calibre That's good for fourth in the Central Division, only two points back of the season and was even in the discussions for the Hart trophy, when the third-place Dallas Stars, which had gone winless in their past six. It also NHL decided to pause its season due to COVID-19 concerns. had the Jets in the first Western Conference wild-card spot, albeit with the Nashville Predators, Vancouver Canucks, Minnesota Wild and Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck was having a Vezina-calibre Arizona Coyotes in hot pursuit. season and was even in the discussions for the Hart trophy, when the NHL decided to pause its season due to COVID-19 concerns. The remaining schedule was not easy, including back-to-back games that were supposed to be played this weekend in Calgary and Connor Hellebuyck was becoming not only a runaway favourite to win the Vancouver. After that, nine more contests, five of them on the road, Vezina Trophy as the league's best goaltender, but there was growing against teams still fighting for playoff spots and jostling for position. talk about the possibility he could even get some Hart Trophy votes as league MVP. And with every passing game, those whispers were Their fate was very much in their hands, and the Jets were certainly growing louder. Based on the wording of the award, it would be hard to trending in the right direction. find a player who's meant more to his team's fortunes than Hellebuyck. A sobering thought: What if the NHL were to eventually return at some Jets' leading goal scorer Kyle Connor, with two more goals against the point this spring, but decide to immediately drop the puck on the playoffs Oilers, was on the cusp of hitting 40 for the first time in his career, with and choose the 16 participants based on win percentage given the fact just five other NHL players ahead of him in the scoring race. teams have played an uneven number of games?

The schedule, a thorn in the Jets' side down the arduous stretch last That would be very bad for the Jets, who would miss out by literally a season, was actually working to their advantage, with plenty of time for fraction of a point. Nashville (.565) and the Calgary Flames (.564) would rest and recover to ensure the fuel tank was on full every time they be the two Western Conference wild-card teams under that scenario. dropped the puck. And it was showing, too, with much better starts and Just outside the line would be Winnipeg, with a winning percentage of much stronger finishes lately. .563.

With the Western Conference seemingly wide open and no dominant Ouch. teams running away in the standings, it seemed like the planets might be NHL commissioner Gary Bettman told reporters Friday they are doing "all aligning for another post-season run. And if they could just get to the sorts of modelling" about how this might play out and that a number of dance, who knows what kind of noise they might be able to make? possibilities are under consideration. He reiterated the hope is to And now? Whether the season resumes, the playoffs begin or the eventually finish the season "in some form" and award a championship. Stanley Cup even gets handed out remains to be seen. We're in All will be sorted out in time, and extreme patience and understanding is uncharted waters here, with society in lockdown mode due to the likely going to be required. coronavirus pandemic. Maybe this will all pass fairly quickly and life as we know and love can Players are being told to stay put awaiting further instructions. Large resume in a few weeks, with the Jets picking up where they left off and group workouts are prohibited. Everyone is in wait-and-see mode, giving fans plenty to write home about. wondering where it all might be headed. Or, perhaps, this page-turner of a season really is over, with a dramatic Winnipeg Jets left wing Kyle Connor is the team's leading goal scorer plot twist nobody could have predicted. and was on the cusp of hitting 40 goals for the first time in his career. Winnipeg Free Press LOADED 03.14.2020 Winnipeg Jets left wing Kyle Connor is the team's leading goal scorer and was on the cusp of hitting 40 goals for the first time in his career.

There's no question team owners are going to do everything in their power to continue play, given the hit their bottom lines are going to take if they don't. That could even mean skating in empty arenas, if necessary, or going well into the summer.

But all of this is much bigger than sport. We're all at the mercy of something medical professionals are still working to get a handle on. There are no guarantees. 1180894 Winnipeg Jets “We do not want any of our great people to be negatively impacted financially,” Stars president Brad Alberts said.

They weren’t just vague promises, either. Jets should step up for arena workers The Tampa Bay Lightning said they’d compensate staff for the seven remaining hockey games, six NCAA Tournament basketball games and other lost events. Paul Friesen “We pride ourselves on doing the right thing for our employees, Published:March 13, 2020 especially in times of need,” Steve Griggs, Lightning owner Jeff Vinik’s right-hand man, said in a statement. Updated:March 13, 2020 7:29 PM CDT The owners of the Philadelphia Flyers and NBA’s 76ers said they’d pay

their staff for the month of March, at least. Our local pro sports teams do charitable things all the time, and they The Toronto Maple Leafs announced a plan to bolster their workers’ EI don’t usually find their way into this space. benefits to 95% of their regular earnings. Giving back to the community should be automatic for pro athletes, their Detroit’s ownership set aside $1 million to cover one month’s wages for coaches, managers and team owners, done without the reward of staff missing out on games, concerts and other events. publicity. The Pittsburgh Penguins on their arena employees: “Our owners, Mario After all, they’re not only making good money – gobs of it, in the case of Lemieux and Ron Burkle, and our players, led by Sidney Crosby, thought the NHL – they have a huge influence as role models in our community. it was essential to help them through this. We have come together to So you won’t typically find stories about hospital visits or 50-50 ticket ensure that they will not lose pay because of the pause in our season.” donations here. You can get that stuff from the team web site. Some players came forward, too. It’s when they don’t do something that it gets my attention. NBA star Kevin Love of the Cleveland Cavaliers promised to donate At least, it did on Thursday and Friday. $100,000 to employees at their arena.

The NHL shutdown means a lot of things to a lot of people, many of them Reigning NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo of Milwaukee and Detroit’s inconsequential. Blake Griffin matched it.

But it’s not small potatoes to the part-time arena workers. Hockey games Rookie Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans pledged to cover and concerts are a key part of their livelihood. They help pay the bills, put the salaries of all arena workers for the next 30 days. food on the table. He’s 19 years old. That’s why it was somewhat surprising to hear Winnipeg Jets chairman Some hockey players took notice. Mark Chipman respond the way he did at Thursday’s news conference to a question about True North’s arena staff, 1,200 of which he said aren’t Florida Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky promised $100,000, and his full-time. teammates were reportedly ready to match, with the team owner topping up whatever is needed. “Those people are on part-time agreements,” Chipman said. “They work when we work. So, regrettably, to the extent that we’re not putting on In other NHL and NBA cities, silence. shows and games, those people obviously would not have a call to work.” Including here in Winnipeg.

It didn’t sound cold so much as matter-of-fact. I asked Chipman on Thursday if the Jets players would be paid during the shutdown, and he said they would. OK, he had a lot of things on his mind, I reasoned. Board of governors meetings for the NHL and AHL, all kinds of logistical problems to sort That’s probably a contractual agreement the owners can’t get out of it. Of through, not to mention the financial headaches to come. course, they’re also hoping these games are just postponed, and not cancelled. At that point, only NBA owner Mark Cuban of the Dallas Mavericks had come forward to say he was going to help out arena workers who’d be True North vice-president Kevin Donnelly said these events would left holding the bag. hopefully be made up, and workers would make up for missed paydays.

Cuban had already made that decision Wednesday night, soon after the But this shutdown is going to last weeks, if not months. True North has NBA announced its shutdown. already closed the arena for a Disney On Ice show this weekend, and that’s likely to be the cold, hard reality for the foreseeable future. “They get paid by the hour, and this was their source of income,” he told reporters. “And so we’ll do some things there. We may ask them to go do Jets games, Moose games, concerts – all likely to be called off. With no some volunteer work in exchange, but we’ve already started the process immediate or definite make-up date. of having a program in place… it’s important to me.” It seems like a pretty good time to be charitable and community-oriented. As reporters at Chipman’s news conference, we didn’t push him on his Just seems like the right thing to do, doesn’t it? position. I can only speak for myself and say I had bigger fish to fry, and our questions were limited. Meanwhile, the money keeps flowing to the people who don’t need it.

Besides, sometimes it’s best to just put the facts out there and chew on It was payday for the players on Friday. them for a while. Winnipeg Sun LOADED 03.14.2020 Chew on it, people did. There was plenty of criticism directed at Chipman, and his billionaire co-owner, David Thomson, on my Twitter feed, for what that’s worth.

Then came Friday.

One by one, team owners stepped up to the plate, promising to relieve the financial hardship their workers will face.

The San Jose Sharks. Detroit. Anaheim. Washington. Nashville. New Jersey. Dallas. 1180895 Winnipeg Jets Or maybe you’re someone like Winnipeg triathlete Tyler Mislawchuk, training overseas all winter long in order to compete in the Olympics in Japan this summer.

Sports figures careful not to make global coronavirus story about Suddenly you get an email from Triathlon Canada saying that all athletes themselves despite disappointment and challenges competing or thinking of competing overseas should return to Canada as soon as possible.

The email said Triathlon Canada’s insurance company would no longer Ted Wyman insure athletes while abroad. With a global pandemic on the go — and Europe the current epicentre — that’s a pretty frightening prospect for Published:March 13, 2020 any athlete. Mislawchuk was competing in Spain a few days ago and is a Updated:March 13, 2020 4:42 PM CDT medal hopeful for the Olympics, if those even happen, in Japan this summer.

Again, in a world that needs everyone to do his or her part to win the I’d like to tell you how people in the sports world are feeling about and battle against this deadly virus, the trials and tribulations of athletes are coping with the widespread shutdown due to the global outbreak of small potatoes. coronavirus, but on Friday I couldn’t find anyone who wanted to talk. But we are used to hearing, reading and writing about what they do and Perhaps it’s the shock of what’s going on in the world as citizens band it’s just so hard to imagine all of that going silent. together to try to stem the contagion, and people just don’t know what to say. Today, the athletes we revere share the same story — they’re living in their little corners of the world, dealing with the same problems we all Perhaps everyone is just too busy trying to figure out what to do, how to face. pay employees, how to make up for the indefinite period of lost time that lies ahead. They’re worried, careful and uncertain.

Or maybe it’s that nobody wants to sound like his or her little corner of Just like everybody else. the world is more important than anyone else’s. Winnipeg Sun LOADED 03.14.2020 To me, that’s the most likely explanation and it makes sense, especially when it comes to sports.

Sports are a luxury, a diversion to keep us entertained almost every day of the year.

They are a way of life for many people and a symbol of normalcy in our world.

Their absence is all the sign you need to know that these are anything but normal times.

Around the world, people are coming to grips with just how serious this outbreak of COVID-19 really is and their daily lives are being impacted.

Just because you are hockey player, or a football executive or a curler or a budding Olympian, it doesn’t make you different from anyone else.

So some people in the sports world simply don’t want to go into how it’s impacting them and who can blame them.

But just imagine you are Gimli’s Kerri Einarson, who was two days away from living a curling dream by playing in the world women’s championship and wearing the Maple Leaf on home soil. You’ve travelled all the way to Prince George B.C., along with 12 other teams from around the world, only to find out on arrival that the event is cancelled.

Or you are Kyle Walters, the general manager of the -winning . He found out Thursday that the CFL will no longer hold a scouting combine and all free agent recruiting camps south of the border have been cancelled.

How in the world do you put together a team under those circumstances? And what do you do instead, given the uncertainty of when all this will end? Will there be a CFL draft? Training camps? Will the regular season start on time?

Those are awfully daunting questions that don’t have answers right now.

Or maybe you’re someone who works for True North Sports and Entertainment, a hockey player with the Jets or the Moose, a coach, a trainer, an accountant, a food services worker at Bell MTS Place.

You have no idea what comes next, and in some cases — like the part- time workers who need business in the building to get by — where money is going to come from if there are no games.

The players can’t work, can’t practice and can’t leave town, but it’s doubtful the millionaires will be too badly off.

Still, it’s a major shift in routines for players whose lives are dedicated to trying to win the Stanley Cup.

Now they don’t even know if the Stanley Cup will be awarded this year. 1180896 Vancouver Canucks TVA’s Renaud Lavoie reported Friday afternoon that players on injured reserve will be permitted to resume their rehabilitation “in the next few days.”

Patrick Johnston: Plenty of questions, few answers as Canucks head into The NHL will continue to pay the players. Players needs to stay in the coronavirus 'pause' city where they are normally playing. Players on IR will be able to resume their rehab in the next few days. The others needs to stay home for now.— Renaud Lavoie (@renlavoietva) March 13, 2020

Patrick Johnston Will event staff at Rogers Arena be paid?

Published:March 13, 2020 Numerous reports say that players will be paid as usual — they have three paid days left — but it’s less clear what the situation is for arena Updated:March 13, 2020 9:26 PM PDT staff. A number of NHL and NBA owners have said they are going to keep paying their arena staff. In some places, players themselves have stepped up to foot the bill. GLENDALE, Ariz. — Once the NHL confirmed it was going to suspend its season Thursday morning, the questions started to roll in. In an emailed statement, Canucks Sports and Entertainment COO Trent Carroll said the team recognized the importance of their staff to the fans, How long before games resume? Can the NHL really just pick up its the arena experience and their business. season from where it left off? What are players allowed to do in the interim? “CSE has committed to a program that will help any part-time employee who requires support. The program will be based on individual need, to And as the day advanced, it became clear these questions from reporters avoid financial hardship during this unexpected employment disruption,” and fans were also being asked by players, teams and the league itself. he said.

The first answer, that the league needed to go on hiatus for the good of “The safety and well-being of all Rogers Arena staff and guests remains public safety, was the easiest. at the forefront of every decision made related to controlling the spread of the COVID-19 virus.” The rest, well they took some time. Some are still being sorted out. Here’s a look at some of the big ones: What happens to the schedule?

Are players allowed to practice or even go to the rink? Are players going The league asked teams for building availability through to the end of to self-isolate? July, theoretically allowing for a delay of six weeks in the schedule — if they were to simply resume action where they left off. These questions were put to the Canucks. Many things remain in flux, they admitted, but they were able to spell out the basics. If that’s the aim, it probably would be feasible if, and only if, teams had already been forced to cancel other events at their arenas, like concerts, “Players have been told to stay home; no practices or team gatherings and suddenly have flexibility in their schedule. for the foreseeable future. They’ve also been encouraged to limit contact with the public,” a spokesman replied by email. The NHL schedule is a complicated beast: think of the Hurricanes’ planned schedule for March, which had them playing back-to-back every The Canucks chartered home from Phoenix Thursday on afternoon, weekend, with travel for all eight games. That will be difficult to replicate. shortly after provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced that people returning from abroad, including the U.S., should self-isolate for A better bet would be on either a condensed regular season to sort out two weeks after arrival. final seeding and qualifiers for the playoffs, or perhaps even some sort of creative play-in format for teams on the bubble of qualification. The league and the NHL Players’ Association reached an agreement Friday afternoon about how to handle a possible return to play. As Whatever happens, believe that the league wants to play. indicated by the Canucks, all NHL players are being asked to stay at home for the time being. Could the league resume play with closed doors?

Players whose families are based in another city are allowed to travel to This is the big mystery. With many jurisdictions banning gatherings of be with their families — recently traded players such as Canucks’ Tyler more than 250 people, as B.C. has, that takes out sporting events for a Toffoli are a prime example — but otherwise players are expected to while. When would the NHL feel comfortable returning from hiatus? How remain in their home city. long do they wait after all their players and essential staff are ruled to be clear of infection? When players are allowed to return to skating, it will be in small groups, preparing for a mini-training camp. But if somehow the players come through the next two weeks healthy, you could imagine a scenario where the teams move toward the Given that the Carolina Hurricanes checked into a Detroit hotel on aforementioned mini-camp, followed by a renewal of the season. If they Sunday, hours after the Utah Jazz checked in, it prompted concerns that were to play in empty arenas, they could still broadcast the games, they might be carriers of the COVID-19 virus — team broadcaster John something you know TV rights holders will be desperate for. Forslund apparently stayed in the room NBA star Rudy Gobert used and is in self-isolation, along with another staff member — you can What are the coaches planning to do? understand why there’s concern how players might be vectors. Presumably lots of video review, lots of FaceTime with family, and These teams travel a lot. They come into contact with many people and perhaps a bottle of red or two. given the suspected level of infection in the U.S. at the moment, Vancouver Province: LOADED: 03.14.2020 probability suggests someone may have been exposed.

If a player develops symptoms of the coronavirus, they are to contact the lead of the team’s medical staff, who will consult with an infectious disease specialist to determine the next steps.

Players who come into contact with someone who is infected are also to report such contact to their team’s medical staff.

As of Friday morning, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly told The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun the league was not aware of any player having tested positive for COVID-19.

What about players recovering from injury? 1180897 Vancouver Canucks Maybe. But the provincial health authority is also stating anyone entering Canada from the U.S. should self-quarantine for 14 days. Suddenly, May 13 is that much closer.

Ed Willes: Waiting for brighter days in a sports world turned dark, upside The CFL, meanwhile, has already cancelled regional combines and its down league combine in Toronto that was set for the end of the month. That event was supposed to showcase both Canadian and global players in advance of the global draft (April 16) and the national draft (April 30).

ED WILLES The global draft is a cornerstone of the CFL 2.0 initiative and 37 players had been invited to the league’s combine, including players from France, Published:March 13, 2020 Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Great Britain, Austria, Finland, Updated:March 13, 2020 4:37 PM PDT Spain, Japan and Italy. Let’s just say that list presents some challenges!

In Victoria, organizers are preparing for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying tournament at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre in late June but, With the second round of its playoffs set to begin Friday night, the B.C. again, there are no guarantees the event will take place. Six teams are Hockey League was about to enter the most exciting time of its season. vying for a spot in the Olympic basketball tournament: Canada, Greece, Turkey, the Czech Republic, Uruguay and China! The IOC maintains the Eight teams were still in pursuit of the league championship and a shot at Summer Games will take place in Tokyo from late July to early August, playing for the national Tier 2 championship. For kids who’d earned which might be wishful thinking. scholarships, it was a chance to prove they belonged in the NCAA. For kids who hadn’t, it was a chance to prove they deserved a shot. At that point, they might also be going head-to-head with the Stanley Cup playoffs. For six months the league’s 17 teams battled to arrive at this moment, and for the vast majority of the 20-year-olds, it represented a chance to Speaking of which, the Memorial Cup is set for Kelowna in late May but, end their junior careers in glory. as you may have surmised by now, it’s in limbo. On Thursday, the WHL suspended operations, using the term “pause,” which mirrored the NHL’s Then the word came down Thursday. Then the world became a dark announcement the same day. place for everyone connected to the league. Interesting choice of words that. It’s believed the NHL and the CHL are “Everybody is going to survive but we feel terrible for our kids, especially looking at April 10, four weeks from now, as a date when they might the ones who are in their last year,” said Chris Hebb, the league’s resume operations. That would give teams five or six days to organize commissioner. “We totally get why it’s happening. We just hate the result and if that means some playoff series becomes best-of-fives instead of of it.” best-of-sevens, so be it. There’s a lot of that going around the province these days. Emptiness, Easy, right? Except you know it’s not. Sorrow. Anger. Frustration. On Monday, there was hope that somehow, the games would still be played in spite of the coronavirus scare. On “We have a huge investment in the Memorial Cup,” said Bruce Hamilton, Friday there was no more hope for the kids in the BCHL after Hockey the owner, president and general manager of the Kelowna Rockets. Canada cancelled their season. “That said, my concern all along has been the health of the players.

“It’s a very final decision in terms of the season,” said Hebb. “When I meet with the parents and they sign an agreement to play with our team, the responsibility for those kids falls on my shoulders. I take And it’s a decision that now confronts everyone connected to sports in that very seriously.” this province. So like the rest of us, he waits and hopes this pandemic thing runs its We wake up today in a world in which everything is turned on its head. course. Maybe, by the end of May, Prospera Place will be rocking as the Sports are a part of that world and, in the big picture, aren’t very best junior players in the country compete for a 100-year-old trophy and, important. But, as is often the case with big societal issues, they’ve maybe, Kelowna will be alive with the sights and sounds of the Memorial become the prism through which we view much of the current health Cup tournament. crisis. Yes, for the moment, let’s think that way. For most of North America, Rudy Gobert became the face of the COVID- 19 pandemic when he tested positive on Wednesday night. Just hours Vancouver Province: LOADED: 03.14.2020 later the NBA suspended operations. The NHL, MLB, MLS, the ATP, PGA and Champions League followed suit on Thursday, one bombshell after another. And now we wait and wonder what happens next.

That, at least, was the big news to emerge this week. But the insidious thing about the pandemic is the degree to which it has impacted every aspect of the sports world. In British Columbia, that world is trying to process everything that’s happened in the last week while it considers a path forward.

Right now, that’s a helluva job.

High school sports, for example, caught a bit of a break this week when the majority of the schools closed for a two-week spring break on Friday. Spring sports are set to begin when they return but, given everything that’s taken place, that seems highly unlikely.

On the B.C. School Sports website there’s a memorandum concerning the organization’s response to COVID-19 that suggests the risk is low but the situation will be monitored closely. It’s also dated March 10. You may be aware a lot has changed since March 10.

Elsewhere, the B.C. Lions are set to hold their training camp in Kamloops with the rookies reporting on May 13. The club has already cancelled its Orange Helmet Awards on March 20 and all free-agent camps in the United States. But May 13 is two months off and things should be safe by then, right? 1180898 Websites Eventually, I was connected. The nurse began by apologizing for the wait, even though it had been barely 30 minutes.

Then it was my turn to apologize. I said, “Sorry, it’s probably nothing, but The Athletic / I was tested for COVID-19 after an NHL road trip. Here’s …” I told him about my cough, added that it was likely just part of my what it was like “annual cold.” He laughed at that. But when I made mention of my recent travel, the tone changed.

First, he wanted to know everything about the symptoms. Was the cough By Scott Cruickshank Mar 13, 2020 dry or wet? How many times an hour was I coughing? Was there shortness of breath? Blood? Did I have a fever? Headache? And

probably a dozen more questions. One thing stands out immediately — besides the face masks and the Then the nurse, assessing the potential for infection, asked for details hushed tones and the awkward vibe. about my trip. I explained that, from departure to return, it had lasted 10 It is the space between people. days — a span that included five cities, five hotels, eight flights, eight airports, more than a dozen Uber rides. Oh, and five events in crowded Anyone who travels a fair bit — or shops at Costco — knows the feeling venues. of having your personal space invaded. Going through security at an airport or checking out with a couple dozen hamburger patties, there is As he waded through that, I again apologized for wasting his time. And an acceptance, an expectation almost, that strangers are going to be in he said, “No, you’re exactly the kind of person who should be calling.” I your kitchen, even crushed against you. thanked him for his help — we’d been chatting for 15 minutes or so — and got ready to disconnect. This, though, is different. Suddenly he began to run through self-isolation guidelines and In a line in a room on the main floor of the Richmond Road Diagnostic coronavirus-testing protocol. “Uh, pardon me?” and Treatment Centre — one-time site of the Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary — there are large gaps between visitors. In an area where 10 He explained that I had to stay home until told otherwise, that someone could’ve queued up is a loose row of four or five. would contact me soon about the where and when of a swab, that I should start a list of all the people I’ve been in contact with. The distance is a sign of respect, maybe. Stunned and feeling more than a little queasy, I got off the phone and The byproduct of fear, much more likely. Nobody wants to get too close. told my wife. And because I’d be unable to staff the Flames’ game that night, I also informed my editor, but I told few others. Because we are standing there for good reason — to get tested for COVID-19. Less than two hours later, I got a call informing me of an appointment later that very day — between 4 and 6 p.m. at Richmond Road facility. In the early stages of the Calgary Flames’ most recent road trip, Feb. 23 Don’t go earlier, I was advised, because they didn’t want the waiting to March 1, there had been some chatter about the coronavirus. But, to room crammed for obvious reasons. And, by the way, parking is free. be honest, the juiciest talking points featured the suddenly famous David Ayres and the NHL’s trade deadline. Arriving shortly after 4 p.m., I walked into the building. Just inside the entrance at a table sat a man garbed in a yellow smock, large eye shield, Johnny Gaudreau’s late-practice pee break at Boston University? That’s face mask, blue gloves. He mumbled something, handed me a mask and what grabbed attention. That’s what made headlines. a large bottle of sanitizer. Tuque off, mask in place, hands cleaned, I And, around the rinks, when someone did bring up the topic of the virus, headed into the waiting room. it was to downplay its reach, its potential for devastation. At airports, a And joined the back of that very loose lineup. few travellers were wearing masks. An overreaction? Kind of seemed like it. Waiting to check in at the counter — staffed by gowned, masked, gloved, harried nurses — we were spaced so far apart that one gent walked in By the trip’s end, that perception was shifting. The coronavirus, clearly, and, not spying an obvious queue, innocently went to the front — only to was a legitimate threat. have mask-muffled bleats of protest send him to the back of the line. Back in Calgary on March 2 — Monday evening — I was feeling fine. The After a few minutes I was able to check in — showing my driver’s licence next day, I watched Flames practice, interviewed David Rittich and and Alberta Personal Health Care card — and sit down. The room’s Jordan Sigalet in person, emailed Chico Resch, did a radio hit, went to mood, no surprise, was sombre, given the unknowing nature of, well, an eye doctor appointment, worked on a story, and hung out with the everything. A young family entered and when the teenaged son’s first family. move was to plug his phone charger into a wall socket, Dad barked at I covered Wednesday’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, him to stop. No real reason. He couldn’t explain why. Just don’t. Thursday’s practice, Friday’s morning skate, attended my wife Leah’s In a holding pattern for more than an hour, I watched on my phone the book launch Friday night — and I was still OK. Flames’ first period against the Vegas Golden Knights. Eventually, I was However, on March 7 — Saturday — I went to the ’s escorted to a private room where a nurse quickly ran through the game as a lower-bowl spectator with my wife, stepson Hunter, father-in- questions I’d already fielded on the phone. That chore done, she ordered law Lorne and his wife Anne Marie. There, I began to really hack. It was me to lower my mask “just a bit” and to blow my nose into a Kleenex, a dry and, at times, relentless cough. No worries, though. Who doesn’t chuck the tissue, then re-sanitize my hands. get colds? It was time for my swab. I asked if I should pull the mask away from my Then on Sunday morning, while watching the news, I learned that one of mouth and she informed me that this was going to be a nasal swab — the presumptive coronavirus cases in Alberta was a male who had and warned me that it would go quite deep. Which it did. I yelped. She recently visited Michigan — which is where the Flames had opened their finished a bit of paperwork, then gave me a self-isolation fact sheet to road trip. Hmmm. read — which she made me promise to study — and a sticker to hand in at the front desk on my way out. I looked at my wife. She looked at me. She added that I would be informed of my result soon — in two to four It seemed highly unlikely that I could have contracted the coronavirus, days. didn’t it? Well, didn’t it? Like everyone else, I used the cuff of my coat to turn the doorknob on the We hemmed, we hawed. No one wants to unnecessarily gum up the way out, and I drove home more concerned than when I’d originally health-care machine, especially now. After more deliberation, I decided called Health Link, but still not believing I could actually be infected by to call Health Link — if only to be scolded by an expert and told my COVID-19. concern was misguided. That, I could live with. So I dialled 811 around noon. After being put on hold, I figured I might as well jot down my To keep my distance from family members, I ate meals in the den and itinerary, including the road trip. spent nights on the couch. And Hunter, 15, handled the cooking. Monday — a scheduled day off for the team — I needed to talk to Brad Treliving about plans for the outbreak. I was told by Peter Hanlon, vice- president of communications, that I could catch up with the general manager at the Flames’ 40th-anniversary luncheon at the Saddledome. I let Hanlon know that, because of a cough, I was staying away from people. I reached Treliving on the phone.

Tuesday, I avoided practice and instead arranged to call Derek Forbort. I also contacted Rhett Warrener for a story. I was starting to feel better, but couldn’t help but wonder why I hadn’t heard about my swab results.

That afternoon — little more than 50 hours after I’d dialled 811 — my phone buzzed. It was AB HEALTH SRVCS, according to the display. The news, after what felt like a way-too-lengthy preamble, was that I had tested negative for the coronavirus.

The biggest surprise? The sharp relief I felt.

And then everything went back to normal. Except, of course, it didn’t.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180899 Websites

The Athletic / One day after hitting pause, NHL advises all players to ‘self-quarantine’

By Aaron Portzline Mar 13, 2020

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The NHL on Friday advised all of its players to “self-quarantine in their own homes over the next week or so” while the league has locked down its rinks and settled into a “pause” in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.

“While ‘self-quarantine’ will undoubtedly impose lifestyle limitations and may seem like an overly precautious measure,” reads a memo from deputy commissioner Bill Daly to the league’s board of governors, general managers and players, “adherence to the principles for the relatively brief period of time that our medical experts deem important should allow us to be in the best position possible to assess next steps regarding the potential resumption of play.”

So far, no NHL players are known to have been diagnosed with this new strain of the coronavirus, although most NHL clubs have not tested all of their players. In Ohio, for instance, no Blue Jackets players have been tested yet because the state, with too few test kits, determines who gets tested.

Two NBA players — Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz — have been diagnosed with COVID-19, the coronavirus-caused disease.

During the “self-quarantine” period, NHL players are urged to work out in their homes — “not in a public gym,” the memo makes clear — or outside, while maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others.

After the “week or so” of self-quarantine, the league said it hopes to reopen its facilities so that players can resume their workouts, followed by a “training camp period” in which team practices could resume.

It’s made clear that the timeframe to reopen facilities and hold a “training camp period” are fluid.

The league has cautioned players against holding “player skates” away from the NHL rinks, similar to what most teams do in the buildup to training camp.

“It is important that players maintain their personal fitness and readiness to resume play to the extent reasonably possible,” the memo states, while adding, “(the league) will ensure that players are afforded sufficient time to resume skating and game preparation activities prior to any resumption of play.”

Players have been ordered to stay in their club’s city unless their immediate family lives elsewhere in North America. A player is required to inform the general manager if he wants to “self-quarantine” in a home outside the club’s city.

Injured players are allowed to continue getting treatment, the memo states.

It also assures players that they’ll continue to be paid. There are three pay cycles remaining in the 2019-20 season, including the paycheck players received Friday.

Finally, the league’s memo requests that club officials “refrain from commenting publicly on, or speculating about, what approaches the league might take in response to the dynamics of the current situation.”

It is widely believed that the NHL regular season is now finished for clubs with no chance of making the playoffs. But how the league proceeds on the other side of the “pause” — who makes the playoffs, how seeding is determined, etc. — could depend on how long the “pause” lasts.

And that’s anybody guess.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180900 Websites don’t think we have any idea what kind of trends we’re seeing. With looking at Italy, as well as what we’re starting to see happening in Germany and France, we’re seeing increases in cases and continual increases. And I think the situation there is going to get worse before it The Athletic / Why an infectious disease expert thinks the NHL season gets better with North America. Watching the trends, with what we’ve won’t resume soon seen in the US, I think we’re not at the peak yet. It is still spreading. Canada is at the start of that — we still have a chance to limit it.

One question I get a lot on Twitter is: What makes this worse than the By Murat Ates Mar 13, 2020 flu? We don’t shut sports down for the flu.

So there’s a couple things. I think the unfortunate reality we live in is that From Ebola to SARS, Dr. Jason Kindrachuk has made a life out of we’ve come to think of influenza as just being something we have to studying infectious diseases. accept.

He believes the NHL has done the right thing in suspending its The problem with that is that influenza kills about 500,000 people globally operations in an attempt to limit COVID-19 transmission. per year — which is a lot of people. That’s half a million people and we have a vaccine for it. I always have to remind people that, when we But Kindrachuk is concerned that the three week, best-case scenarios for compare back to influenza, we can’t think of influenza as just being this a return to game action are a little too optimistic. passive disease. It has a massive public health impact. It kills 30,000 to 60,000 Americans a year and about 3,000 to 6,000 Canadians. “We still have a chance to try and limit (transmission),” Kindrachuk says. “But I don’t know what that time frame is. We need to think a little bit What makes this virus a little bit different is we don’t currently have any more about the fact that it could potentially go over the long term — what vaccines or any therapeutics for coronaviruses. We don’t really have a are we prepared to do to mitigate that as much as we can?” therapeutic way to be able to contain or combat it. So now what we’re up against is trying to limit the ability of that virus to spread from human to Mitigation is one of Kindrachuk’s areas of expertise. As a Canada human and region to region. Now, the other problem with this virus is that Research Chair in Emerging and Re-Emerging Viruses, Kindrachuk’s about 80 percent of people that get infected will likely have mild to biggest research interest is global health. More specifically, he studies somewhat moderate symptoms. In a lot of cases, we’ve seen people that viruses like Ebola, SARS, and the new coronavirus that pose major have no symptoms at all. We’re up against something that we can’t threats to global health, often because their molecular processes are not necessarily identify in the vast majority of patients who get infected so we well understood. can’t really tell who’s infected at any point in time. For the last three years, he has worked at the Biosafety Level 4 lab on The downside of that is there’s around 20 percent of the population that Bannatyne Avenue, through the University of Manitoba. He recently will get severe disease, or potentially fatal disease from this virus. We received funding to work specifically on COVID-19 and, most recently, he think the case fatality rate is about 2 to 3 percent. And we know that that had a flight of his own cancelled — to the Marshall Islands, where he was predominantly happens in people over the age of 60, with the greatest headed to help manage their COVID-19 response efforts. potential for fatal disease in people that are over 80 — or people that “The World Health Organization had asked the aid group that I was a part have underlying health complications, like diabetes or hypertension. of to go to the Marshall Islands to provide support if we could. We made Where we get into a bit of a problem here is we can’t necessarily tell the it to Honolulu at midnight on Saturday but then the Marshall Islands vast majority of patients that are affected and potentially spreading the closed their borders.” disease. But when it hits places where we have an elderly population, places like nursing homes like we’ve seen in Washington State, or in Suffice to say, Dr. Kindrachuk understands not only the science but also situations where we see (other) health complications, that’s where this what it’s like to have his work interrupted in the name of disease virus can wreak havoc. response. He recently spoke to The Athletic about the NHL’s decision to suspend its operations, the role empty arenas play in preventing the So yes, in a lot of people, the virus doesn’t seem like it’s that big of a spread of COVID-19, and his best guess at when professional sports concern. But we have to think about that 20 percent of the population for might safely return to action. which this is a massive concern, and for which there’s no therapeutic or vaccine to offer those people to be able to combat the virus. Did the NHL, in your mind, do the right thing? Is that a meaningful thing that they did? How do sports fans gathering in arenas play into it?

Yes. I think what we saw with the NBA was that they were in a bad The virus spread predominantly by respiratory droplets. So what that position — they had a case that was confirmed and they needed to show means is that people that are within a couple of metres of one another, if that they were taking this seriously. Ultimately, for the NHL, I think this you have somebody that sneezes or coughs, what happens is that they was the only move they could make to show the public that they were release droplets out of their respiratory tract. Those droplets, if they’re taking it seriously as well. To help get the message out that this is an sick, will likely have virus in them. So what happens is, if you have a lot actual, serious public health crisis. I think it’s the right move. of people that are in close proximity to one another, and if you have a few people within that group that are sick, they have the ability to spread it to I think that they’re being very optimistic in terms of their timeline for what a large number of people that are surrounding them very quickly. That’s they’re hoping for. I don’t think we’re quite yet at the stage with this our concern right now. pandemic where we have any idea of how long it’s going to take for us to get this thing contained in the install transmission chain. I understand When we look at sports, where you have fans that are conglomerating why they’re hoping that they’re still going be able to move ahead, but I close to one another, you have that ability for the virus to spread — and think we’re far away from that point yet. again, we can’t necessarily tell who’s all sick because the virus doesn’t create really strong symptoms in the majority of the population. And in James Mirtle and Pierre LeBrun have written that the NHL’s hope for a the middle of a winter like we have here in Winnipeg, you could ask best case scenario is three weeks. Mark Chipman shared that all NHL somebody: How many times did you cough today compared to teams have submitted July arena availability with the league. Which yesterday? Not everybody is going to be able to gauge whether or not timeline is most realistic? they’re sick. That’s where we get into a bit of an issue because maybe I think my best answer for that is what we’re starting to see from our own those people are actually at the early stages of being symptomatic. conferences. We’re starting to cancel our conferences out to June so I Even in a situation like, say, what the NCAA was going to do — where think that gives some indication from the side of researchers. I think they were going to stop fans from coming in but still have games — you people don’t want to give a false impression that we think that this will be have an issue with people that are in close contact with one another, and dealt with fairly quickly. that includes athletes.

You do want to be optimistic and say we can get a handle on things. We So what do you do? You can limit spread, you know, within an auditorium know that in China — again, they used some pretty draconian measures or within a stadium among fans just by taking the fans out of the — but they were able to get this virus contained and they’re continually equation. But you still have the potential to have that virus spreading seeing decreases in cases. And we’re only 11 weeks into this pandemic. from athlete to athlete. With sports like hockey or sports where you’re So I think that there is a potential to see things change fairly quickly. But I sharing equipment and locker rooms and potentially even water bottles, this just amplifies all of the variables that could increase the concern.

What can we do other than shut down sports leagues?

I think part of this goes back to: What is our best source of disease control? Our best sources of disease control, and these have worked for centuries now, have been social distancing — so keeping six feet in between us and somebody else, especially if we have symptoms of illness — or trying to minimize the amount of contact that we have with people. So we don’t shake hands. We don’t touch other people’s arms or touch their face. We try to minimize touching our own face after touching surfaces or touching somebody else. But also just using soap.

The best infection control measure that I think we’ve ever had and probably will ever have is soap and water. It’s unbelievable how well soap works as a disinfectant for even the worst of the worst viruses. Whether we’re talking about the flu or talking about ebola or talking about this coronavirus, soap will still break these viruses apart, unbelievably easily. We don’t need really fancy disinfectants or hand sanitizer for our skin as long as we are using soap and water continuously. Those things will offer us more protection than anything else.

When people are out at different events or say you’re grocery shopping, it’s a matter of being conscious and making sure that your hands are clean as often as possible. If you touch a surface — and you obviously have to touch the handle on the cart — maybe then you’re trying to get your hands washed before you leave the store. Or the very least, maybe you’ve got disinfectant wipes and and you get your hands a good, thorough wipe before you consider touching your face.

What would you tell a frustrated Jets fan who just wants to see Winnipeg play hockey this weekend?

Ultimately, we’re a global community. I think we have to lead by example, where and when we can. The National Hockey League and the different sports leagues have utilized an opportunity to show their support to try to get this virus contained. And the reason that I think it’s important to them is the faster that we get this virus contained and the faster we stop people from from getting COVID-19, the quicker we can get back a normal existence.

I think for all the leagues involved and the NHL in particular, I think that they’re looking at what the long term benefits are — even while going through the short term struggle. I think by doing that, they’re setting the example for people saying we’re taking this very seriously. This is not something to shrug your shoulders at. But they’re also doing this because it ultimately will benefit the league by hopefully getting everybody back faster.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180901 Websites Wickenheiser described doing a hospital clerkship in hockey terms, noting that “you’re learning the ropes in different specialties as kind of the low man on the totem pole. You’re like a rookie on the different units and they rotate you through, for four to six weeks at a time, in the different The Athletic / Duhatschek Notebook: Wickenheiser’s pandemic thoughts, specialties.” schedule what-ifs and more Since January, she has been working in emergency rooms.

“As a med student, I’m not permitted to see COVID-19 patients directly, By Eric Duhatschek Mar 13, 2020 but I’m still on the front lines,” Wickenheiser said. “Like everyone else working here, I’m not afraid but we are taking a lot of precautions. Gown,

glove and mask. I’ve been doing a lot of reading myself – about how to On Thursday, as I was staring at my computer screen, pondering story properly protect yourself. How to put the stuff on properly – and how to ideas, I asked myself: Who do I know that has one foot in the world of take it off properly. It’s actually the taking off of that stuff, where people medicine and one foot in the game of hockey and thus could offer a can get infected – not necessarily putting it on. reasonable, rational take on what’s going on in the world right now? “You know there’s a risk, but everyone went into this profession for times And I immediately thought of Hayley Wickenheiser. like this – and to be able to help. So, what I can do, at my level, I try to do.” Wickenheiser, a Hockey Hall of Famer, is considered by many to the greatest female player ever. She is now nearing the completion of her As the urgency of coronavirus became ever clearer, Wickenheiser said medical school studies, currently doing a practicum (known as clerkship) she’s had a lot of friends and contemporaries from the hockey world, at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. reaching out to tap her medical knowledge.

Med students cannot practice medicine until they graduate and are “People ask me every day, ‘how worried should we be?’” Wickenheiser certified, but they do work on the front lines as part of their training – and said. “I did talk to a couple of the girls after women’s worlds were get to see every possible medical catastrophe under the sun, from cancelled. I was part of the team in ’03 when SARS happened. I was in accidents to drug overdoses to dealing with the effects of a worldwide Finland, playing pro when that (the 2003 Women’s World Championships pandemic. in Beijing) got cancelled. You just have to roll with it.

That’s COVID-19 – the coronavirus that has currently shut down play in “SARS was 8,000 cases. This is over 100,000 right now. So, it’s on a the NHL, the NBA and many other professional leagues around the much larger scale, but with a much less devastating effect, I believe. This world. is going to hit way more people, but with less mortality than SARS or Ebola, but it’s still something that needs to be taken care of.” It also caused the cancellation of the Women’s World Hockey Championships, which were scheduled for Halifax later this year. The Her advice for older adults, such as me: “I’d be super careful. I’d stay entire sporting world seems to be in a holding pattern now, gripped by away from big gatherings. I wouldn’t go super crazy about it, but I would paralysis that has no genuine comparable in the recent past. The keep your distance for a couple of weeks. It’s going to come. I think situation is fluid and it isn’t just hyperbole to suggest that spectator sports Canada has done an amazing job so far compared to other places in the at every level are in uncharted waters — unsure of how to proceed and world. I always appreciate our health-care system, when something like knowing only that cautious, measured steps need to be the order of the this happens – how lucky we are, despite the fact that not everybody day. feels that way.”

There are very few people as thoughtful as Wickenheiser. She’s tweeted The NHL made its decision to suspend play on Thursday, a day behind advice about dealing with the coronavirus, but Twitter is limited by its the NBA. According to commissioner Gary Bettman, the decision was character count, and not everyone is on social media. As it happened, made after consulting with all the appropriate medical authorities. Wickenheiser was on a short break from her emergency room duties “This is the right response,” Wickenheiser said. “It’s totally reasonable, when I called and agreed to answer a few questions, beginning with the given the way this has spread. In the end, (the cancellations, one that’s probably on most people’s minds: postponements and pauses) may actually help to slow the spread of this What the heck should they be doing to get through their daily lives? and get everybody back to work quicker. Medical advice and science, that’s who we should be looking towards — the medical experts and “It’s not a time to panic and create hysteria,” Wickenheiser answered, scientists, not the politicians. And if the league leaders and the politicians “but I do think the advice about social distancing is incredibly relevant – take their lead from them, then we have a chance to do the right thing by and the reason is, if the health system gets overwhelmed, then those this disease. people who need the help the most are not going to receive the care they need. And so, we all need to take extra measures to protect the most “The people who are on the front lines, dealing with this on a daily basis, vulnerable. That’s where we’re at – and that’s why social distancing is are the ones that really know the best – and that’s who should be important. That’s why you see major events cancelled. listened to.”

“Most healthy people will handle the virus. The estimates are that 30 to If the playoffs happen, they could be really good 70 percent of the population will get it, but if we can slow it down, then There are a lot of ‘what ifs?’ when it comes to what may happen next in the 10 percent that needs ICU and ventilators and things like that will be the NHL (outlined here by James Mirtle). able to get that if they need it. If the hospital system gets overwhelmed, then people are going to die in the hallways. That’s just a fact of Officially, the NHL “paused” its 2019-20 season on Thursday, beginning something like this. with the ten games on Mar. 12, which were officially listed as postponed.

“So, for the very young and the very old and the immunocompromised, According to the league’s statement, the decision to suspend the season this is a very serious thing – and we have to be good citizens and take was made because it was “no longer appropriate” to continue playing care of each other. No one is really immune to washing their hands or games, in the aftermath of a positive coronavirus test in the NBA. The taking good, health-care precautions. I think pro sport is at the leading NHL’s plan was to continue to “monitor all the appropriate medical edge of this because if 20,000 people are in a cramped space in these advice” and also to encourage players and “other members of the NHL arenas, it’s like a prime incubator for this thing to spread. So, what community to take all reasonable precautions – including self- they’re doing makes a lot of sense. Hopefully, with the right precautions quarantine.” over time – and I don’t know how long the time frame is – we can essentially slow and then shut it down.” But there was also this: Depending upon how events unfold, the NHL’s goal was to resume play as soon as it was deemed “appropriate and Wickenheiser began attending medical school at the University Calgary prudent” in the hopes of “completing the season and awarding the in July of 2018, or soon after she retired as an active player. Last Stanley Cup.” November, she became the seventh woman inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. In addition to med school, she is also working for the Given the pall that’s cast over the world – and not just the sporting world Toronto Maple Leafs as their assistant director of player development. – at the moment, it’s hard to imagine that the NHL will be up and running again anytime soon, which makes accomplishing the goal of awarding King was a former newspaper publisher who joined the Flames in 2001, the Cup a difficult one to achieve. during a period of uncertainty over the future of so-called small-market teams in Canada. There is nothing official from the league on a possible time frame for resumption of play either, although NBA commissioner Adam Silver Two teams, the Nordiques and the Winnipeg Jets, had already suggested on TV this week that even in a best-case scenario, his league been relocated (to Denver and Phoenix respectively). would likely be shut down for a month. King was brought aboard to help stabilize the business side of the It’s reasonable to assume the NHL has similar thoughts, even if it isn’t operation – and helped guide the Flames through those turbulent saying anything publicly about a possible timeline. But when Bettman financial times. Lots of people are described as larger-than-life, but in leaves the door open for a possible resumption of play, that’s not King’s case, it was true – literally and figuratively. accidental. The NHL is meticulous and ultra-deliberate about its messaging. Deep down, you know that returning to action at some later Imposing physically, he was an accomplished public speaker, and date is what they hope the outcome is here. towards the end of his life, mostly the point man on the team’s negotiations to build an event center that will eventually replace the aging Accordingly, if you weigh those two realities – that mid-April is likely the Saddledome. earliest possible date for a restart, but that the goal is absolutely to play again – then what might that look like? There was one anecdote from my story about his life and times that I wanted to highlight. Presumably, players will continue to work out on their own during the current stoppage. Eventually, as the virus abates over time, teams may Former Flames’ captain Jim Peplinski and King were close friends; it was be able to return to practice. Possibly, the first intermediate step might be King that brought Peplinski aboard as the team’s vice president of to play games in front of empty buildings, which would at the very least business development. create television content for fans, even if those fans couldn’t experience Recently, King had – at Peplinski’s direction – started a memoir about his NHL game action from their arena seats. life, a common-enough decision by an accomplished businessman.

About the only thing about the current state of affairs that isn’t a complete But the way King was going about it was absolutely fascinating. He was hypothetical is this: going to tell his life story through the cars he owned – and drove.

If they do get back to playing games sometime before the start of When Peplinski told me that story this past Monday, I had to think about summer, it will be a completely different playing – and postseason – it for a minute before I realized what a brilliant and unconventional idea experience for the players from anything they’d ever gone through that was. Try it out yourself: I immediately started thinking about all the before. We’re talking about uncharted waters. cars I owned – ’63 Chevy II; ’73 Ventura; ’77 Thunderbird; ’94 Intrepid; And the reason is simply that normally, by the end of the season, most 2007 Murano, which I still drive – and how, thinking back on each, players are running on fumes. immediately brought back a flood of memories of where we used to go and what we used to do. I don’t know if this was an original idea from They play a challenging 82-game schedule and especially with how tight King or if someone had done it before and he’d read about it elsewhere. the playoff races were this season, every game posed both a physical For me, it was the first time I’d ever thought about it, but I’ll warn you right and a mental challenge for all the teams on the playoff cusp. now — it can send you down a rabbit hole quickly, if you let it.

As the regular season ends, the needle is often edging close to empty. Which, I soon came to realize, isn’t a bad idea in these uncertain times. It can conjure up a series of positive Images and memories – or it did for Then come the playoffs – a two-month grind for the final two teams left me anyway. standing. And while I wouldn’t normally share that thought in a weekly NHL By the time the Stanley Cup final rolls around, the postseason has often notebook, I also realize these aren’t normal times and anything that can become a war of attrition. Everybody that’s still playing is usually getting direct your thinking in an upbeat, happier direction can’t be a bad thing. by on adrenaline and excitement alone. The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 But if they do get back playing after a one-month hiatus this year, that normal pattern of behavior will be completely flipped.

The time off now will allow players to rest and to heal – and at the most important time of the season, their tanks will have been fully topped up.

There’ll be rust of course. Even coming out of the bye weeks, when teams are only off for about a week or so, it seems to take a game or two to get back into rhythm. So that’ll happen. And of course, teams will have to go from zero to 60 instantly, and that will create challenges. If the playoffs start right away – and especially if they are shortened in any way to a best-of-three or a best-of-five – there will not be a lot of time to get fully back in sync.

But once they get going, it could be really good. Wouldn’t it be something if this year, the players had some gas left in the tank, if they ever actually do get around to playing playoffs?

Most years, most people agree that the best round of the NHL playoffs is the first round and then it falls off after that. Conceivably, if there is a postseason after an extended break, you could theoretically see the possibility of the hockey actually getting better, not worse, as the playoffs move along. Something to think about anyway, if this NHL season ever gets off the “pause” button and resumes play.

And finally …

On the same day as Bettman announced that the NHL season was on hold, the Calgary Flames lost an important, long-time member of their executive team.

Ken King, who had been president and CEO of the team for close to two decades, died at the age of 68 from lung cancer. 1180902 Websites His answer was “Yes.’’ The players as of Thursday had three payday’s remaining: March 13 (today), March 30 and April 15. The league’s directive to teams is to pay the players. Now, where it gets interesting moving forward is how much money the players essentially will have to The Athletic / LeBrun: Thoughts on a conversation with Bill Daly about pay back in the form of escrow. As one team executive explained to me the NHL shutdown on Friday, if the projected $5 billion in revenues for this season becomes let’s say $4 billion (just picking a random number) depending on the

impact of fewer games (or no more games), then suddenly the players’ By Pierre LeBrun Mar 13, 2020 50-50 share just went from $2.5 billion to $2 billion. Do the math. The players can’t make more than 50 percent of the pie. There would be rather large escrow payments. Listen, don’t get me wrong, I’m way more concerned about the arena workers and staff whose lives are going to be Once, for a story, I spent the day in Bill Daly’s office. turned upside down the next several weeks, they’re the real financial In fact, it was the first piece I wrote for The Athletic two and a half years victims here. But it’s still interesting to try and forecast what all this ago, chronicling a day in the life of the busiest man in hockey. means for the players and owners in the NHL. To which another team executive wondered if the players would want to at least forgo the April It was chaotic — multi-tasking takes on a whole new meaning for Daly. I 15 payday to start balancing the books. Who knows. And right now, it’s remember thinking that day that maybe Daly was his own worst enemy not the No. 1 thought for anyone involved. because he’s involved in almost every facet of the NHL’s operation, right down to some things you’d figure he’d let other people worry about. Importance of an 82-game season

But it speaks to the work ethic and devotion he has for the job as the No. To start, his last response debunked something I speculated on TSN on 2 man in the NHL. Thursday when I said that the playoffs were so important to the NHL that it would do all it could to complete the postseason deep into the summer, I remember leaving that day feeling like I needed to drink five martinis. even if it means shortening next season. The fact that Daly’s answer was And all I did was watch him work all day. a firm no reminds me how important an 82-game regular season is not I bring this up because I can only imagine what the last few days have just for owners but for players as well, due to their 50-50 partnership of been like for NHL’s Deputy Commissioner. There is no handbook for a hockey-related revenues. novel virus crashing down on the world and shutting down your sport. So yes, the league and the NHLPA no doubt would love to resume this And while it’s my job as a journalist to make inquiries with him, I do feel a season and have the playoffs, especially award a Stanley Cup champion. bit bad when I’m adding to his long to-do list. But next season being whole is equally important. Another factor to consider is that players get paid during the regular season and not the In the middle of all that craziness on Thursday, while I was on air for six playoffs. But the fact teams have been asked about their July building hours at TSN, I emailed him six questions. Not surprisingly, given what availability tells you the NHL is ready to go late in a bid to get its playoffs was going on, he responded on Friday morning. in.

Here were my questions and Daly’s responses: Should fans stay away?

Do we know if any NHL players have tested positive for coronavirus? Daly didn’t have an answer, really, for the empty arena question because it’s too early to tell what the landscape when play resumes. I think you’re We do not have any information that suggests an NHL Player has tested going to see some people suggest the NHL should return to empty positive for the coronavirus. arenas in order to maintain the avoidance of large gatherings.

Is the plan to get all NHL players tested for it as soon as possible? However, when players are away from the rink, they go home and re- Our medical experts are not advising a mass-testing of all of our players. enter society. At some point during their daily lives, whether that’s getting Besides the fact that there would be insufficient testing resources to groceries or walking the dog, they will encounter other people. If any accommodate such a direction, the medical professionals don’t believe it player gets infected and then returns to the rink for a playoff game, well, is necessary. Part of the purpose of the pause is to let people relax and you know the rest of the drill. I’m not saying it doesn’t make sense to to see if anyone is sick and develops symptoms. return with empty arenas, it’s just that I don’t think the NHL should return until health authorities feel much better about whether the spread has Any decision on the NHL Draft in Montreal (and combine in Buffalo)? I been controlled in our communities. heard from one source that the draft in Montreal is likely to be held via phone, no big gathering as an event? Schedules and formats

No decisions on the combine or the draft at this point. The only thought to Question No. 4 is on the minds of many NHL team executives. When it is conducting an on-line draft (or one conducted safe to do so, what’s a fair way to resume play if there isn’t time for each telephonically/technologically) would be if there would be a need to do team to play all 82 regular-season games? Different team executives so. have thrown all kinds of ideas my way over the past 24 hours. But they’re all just spitballing because, as Daly said, the league isn’t there yet. But it Any decision on whether the regular season is now over and when the won’t stop team execs from dreaming up scenarios and passing them on season resumes it will be the playoffs right away? to the league.

No. Form and format of resumption of play scenarios will depend entirely I’ve heard everything from play-in scenarios for the bubble teams to on what transpires between now and then and, ultimately, on timing and allowing all 31 teams a chance to make it. It’s all over the place as far as logistical constraints. ideas. I’m not a fan of allowing the bottom feeders back into the playoff orbit. Not when 85 percent of the regular season has been played and it’s Will games resume in front of empty arenas? been determined your team played itself out of it. But I don’t mind the Premature to say what the situation will look like when we resume play. bubble teams, play-in idea. You obviously need to have an even number of teams in the play-in scenario, so either you’re going top 10 in each If the NHL playoffs go into July and/or August, could there be a conference remains alive, or top 12. The problem in the East is there’s a shortened regular season next year? clear drop-off between No. 11 Florida/Rangers and No. 12 Montreal. But if you go top 10, you’re either lopping off the Panthers or Rangers No. depending on points or points percentage. In the West, top 10 means I had about 10,000 other questions I would have wanted to ask, but going you exclude Arizona, top 12 means you include Arizona and Chicago. back to the top of this piece, other people need Daly’s time and they’re Whatever the league ends up doing, if the season does resume, it won’t way more important than me. please every owner. That’s going to be one of the most difficult things for commissioner Gary Bettman to navigate on the hockey side of things. Before getting into my thoughts on Daly’s responses, I did had a follow- up question on Friday that revealed some important news. Are players Draft will be different going to get paid during this pause, regardless of whether the season resumes or not? I find it hard to believe the draft in Montreal will look the same. Look no further than what the NHL did after the 2004-05 lockout. There was a July 30-31, 2005 draft in Ottawa in a smaller venue with way fewer prospects and people on hand. Depending on where health authorities feel things are this summer, the draft has to be impacted in some way or another.

Let’s hope the focus of our worry soon returns to the games, because it will mean getting back to normalcy, instead of coping with the real-life threat of this virus.

Stay safe and healthy, everyone.

The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180903 Websites Depending on the size of the market and the structure of the revenue streams (i.e. do they get all of the money from parking, concessions, etc.) teams generate between $1.5 million and $3 million per home date.

The Athletic / NHL financial impact: How much money does a team bring That number can rise exponentially during the playoffs when ticket prices in each home game? and other attendant expenses rise.

That’s why making the playoffs in the normal course of a season is so critical to teams’ bottom lines. By Scott Burnside Mar 13, 2020 One NHL GM wondered how the suspension of play would impact the salary cap, although the league and the players’ association can massage that. Still, this GM, whose team has postseason aspirations this An NHL franchise involves not just players but literally hundreds of season, admitted that if the season is canceled it would be a huge blow people from custodians and maintenance workers to communications to his organization’s bottom line. and community events staff to the coaches and players. “You need that money,” he said. And the lifeblood of every NHL team is the games. A team like Pittsburgh, which has made the playoffs every year since Now the shutters have been rolled down thanks to the pandemic spread 2007 and won three Stanley Cups since 2009, may not feel the pinch of of the COVID-19 virus and a $5 billion league has abruptly stopped. lost revenues that would accompany a lost playoff season compared to When or if the players will return to the ice this year, whether there will be teams like Edmonton, which has appeared in the playoffs just once since a 2020 Stanley Cup champion crowned, no one knows. 2006 or Arizona, which hasn’t been to the postseason since 2012. Edmonton looks locked into a playoff spot this year and the Coyotes are Yet, had the coronavirus outbreak, which prompted the NHL to “pause” on the bubble. operations Thursday afternoon, come at a different time in the league’s history, it might have challenged the very existence of some franchises. “Competitively you want to win, but you also need that money to operate with less restriction,” the GM said. As it is, multiple economic experts familiar with pro sports and specifically the NHL insist the league’s overall health and the individual health of the So how much money are we talking about? It’s complicated. vast majority of franchises will allow it to ride out the loss of games. The revenue picture in Arizona isn’t the same as it is in Toronto, but it’s On a team-by-team basis, the NHL’s private ownership club has never possible to provide at least a ballpark estimate of how much it costs an been as well-heeled and stable as it is now, one longtime NHL executive NHL team to cancel or postpone a game. who has worked with a variety of organizations around the league said The average attendance in the NHL this season is 17,316, and the Thursday. average 2019-20 ticket price, according to the Chicago-based Team Teams that in the past might have been crushed by the suspension of Marketing Report sports business consultancy, is $75.76 (all figures operations, like Carolina or Phoenix, have new owners with deep U.S.). pockets. Thus, the typical team makes $1,311,860.16 in ticket revenue per regular Outside of perhaps the Ottawa Senators, this veteran executive said season game. there isn’t one team that should be troubled by a short-term loss of game Those tickets will need to be reimbursed, although given the fact the revenue. typical NHL team’s season ticket base accounts for a majority of the Another top team executive said beyond financial considerations, it’s seats, you may get away with crediting them to next season’s package. critical that everyone do their part to slow the spread of the virus and Season tickets, of course, are paid in advance (although some teams allow it to be brought under control. allow their buyers to pay in installments).

“Our sport was and is in a great spot,” he said. No such luck for individual game seats, and because games have been called off in the immediate term, teams will lose their gameday walk-up However, he warned that like all areas of the economy, if the spread of business. the coronavirus lingers into the summer and beyond, say to Labor Day, “we’re all going to be in deep doo-doo.” As a hockey industry source said, “that’s not a loss per se, more of a lost opportunity.” “It’s a collective pain because everybody’s going through it,” the executive said. “The duration of this is going to dictate how painful it is.” Luxury boxes present a slightly different situation. In most rinks they’re leased in advance and generally are available for all events, including If the league is down for a month or so, “everybody’ll be OK,” he said. “If concerts. One team official who spoke to The Athletic on background we lose the season altogether and don’t have a Stanley Cup playoff, it said most of his club’s suite holders have clauses providing for credits or takes on another level of pain.” reimbursements when something like this comes up.

Michael Rapkoch, the president of Sports Value Consulting, a company Estimating concession and merchandise sales can be tricky. that evaluates professional sports franchises and offers advice to investors looking at professional sports entities, thinks the NHL is well- A former NHL executive from the business operations side indicated the positioned to emerge relatively unscathed. per-capita spend on food and beverages, including beer sales, typically ranges between $5 and $20 (again, the numbers will be higher in places “No one team is going to drop like it was the stock market,” Rapkoch like Montreal and Chicago). So that’s another $85,000 to $350,000 per said. game. The average team probably ends up somewhere in the middle. Call it $215,000. The fact this is taking place so late in the regular season is a benefit to the league compared to MLB, which is less than three weeks away from The per capita number for team merchandise purchases is around $1 at its season openers. the low end, and according to our source, “$5 is probably a pretty competitive number, and for special events like anniversaries or jersey Assuming at some point the league will be able to resume play this retirements it might go up as high as $25.” So if we go with the season, “the setback is going to be temporary,” Rapkoch said. “I don’t competitive figure, it’s $86,850 per home date. think it’s going to be a major hindrance.” Teams that own their arenas, which is the bulk of the league, will also The NHL has television deals coming up that will add to the robust draw revenue from parking, the cost of which can vary greatly. The economic picture and they’ve done a lot to enhance growth and fan Canadiens, for example, charge $28 for the approximately 600 indoor commitment, he added. parking spots at the . Let’s assume the average team rakes in That’s not to say shutting down the league isn’t going to hurt. another $16,800 per game. Most clubs also draw revenue from sponsors and board-side advertising, which again can amount to anything from a few thousand dollars to the high six figures. For the purposes of this exercise, we can estimate the back-to-back games and shorter series (as opposed to the current best- average is $50,000 – with the caveat that the number is much higher for of-seven format) or a system that would allow all 31 teams to take part. the top-grossing teams. Local broadcasters could be allowed to broadcast maybe the first two As with any other ad-based business, terms and conditions of contracts rounds of a special playoff tournament as a way of recouping revenue. are variable, but according to one executive, most key local sponsors pay either a monthly or quarterly amount to teams. Some will have clauses in And in a situation with every team involved, fan interest would be through their contracts that provide for credits or reimbursements in the event of the roof, he said, and it would allow teams to get back most if not all the cancellations. games they would have lost with the cessation of the regular season.

Put it all together, and you wind up with something close to $1.7 million “It could become a rallying point for people coming out of this terrible per game for the average team, before arena naming rights, local and time, right?” he said. national broadcasting money, revenue sharing and the like. And again, Another team president was in full support of some sort of modified the higher-revenue teams easily pull in double that amount. playoff grid if the NHL is able to resume play later this spring or into the But it also costs money to put on a hockey game. summer.

There’s the electrical bill, property taxes (in some cases) and interest and “There is an opportunity to come out of this with something really great amortization if the building is financed; plus putting on an NHL game and really cool and compelling,” he said. “Do it different and get people requires somewhere close to 1,000 ushers, ticket-takers, security guards, paying attention to this new playoff format or something like it that would maintenance people, concession workers and production employees for get tremendous attention. I totally agree.” the in-game presentation. The bulk of those folks are hourly workers, The Athletic LOADED: 03.14.2020 only a small subset are team employees. In any case, it can cost a team anywhere from $100,000 to $200,000 per game for all of them to be there.

If the games are canceled, most of those folks aren’t going to work, which means they won’t be paid (team employees and those who work for Mark Cuban aside, obviously).

By this point of the season, teams have played between 32 and 37 home games, meaning they will forego anywhere between $8 million and $17 million by canceling the remainder of their home dates.

The bigger hit comes in the playoffs. Ticket and concession prices are higher, teams are no longer paying their players, and interest grows in ancillary things like T-shirts and ballcaps.

“You can generally estimate a mark-up of between 20 and 100 percent in the playoffs,” said our former team executive, who still works as an industry consultant and requested anonymity.

In considering the impact of the league’s decision to suspend play, it’s important to understand the ripple effect of closing the doors in 31 NHL arenas.

It’s not just that fans can no longer follow their favorite team or that the final stages of your hockey pool are now in limbo.

There are a great many people whose quality of life will be influenced in a very negative way by the suspension of play.

The GM we spoke to Thursday said he knows a guy whose source of income is slinging beer at the local NHL, NBA and MLB venues.

None of those teams will be playing for the foreseeable future.

“That’s a big kick in the nuts,” he said.

Jimmy Parey has owned Shale’s Cafe, a bar in downtown Pittsburgh, since 2003.

He had to ride out the 2004-05 lockout and then the lockout through the fall of 2012. But the uncertainty surrounding what will happen with the balance of this NHL season, not to mention the ongoing cancellations of shows and events at PPG Paints Arena, is “devastating.”

Patrons come to Shale’s and to the other restaurants and bars in the area near the arena for events. “It’s not a final destination place,” Parey said. “Everything’s predicated on what’s going on at the arena. And it’s a trickle-down effect,” he added. “It’s the vendors, it’s the parking lot people. It’s everybody that banks on the events.”

Every NHL market has vendors and business owners in similar situations. The worst-case scenario for these people is that the NHL season ends without a Stanley Cup winner being announced.

But if at some point down the road the spread of the virus slows and/or stops and medical officials agree it’s OK for people to once again gather in large numbers, would the NHL try and reschedule the remaining 3½ weeks of the regular season and then hold a traditional playoff schedule?

One longtime NHL executive said he wonders if the league and players’ association would consider an outside-the-box playoff format that would expand the pool of participants. Options he suggested: a playoff grid with the top 12 teams from each conference, an AHL-style schedule with 1180904 Websites “My hope and expectation is that we can finish the season in some form (and) award the Stanley Cup.”

Bettman’s made it very clear publicly and privately the NHL will do Sportsnet.ca / Some of the biggest questions the NHL faces after everything humanly possible to do this. pausing its season This is purely guesswork, but a few people I talked to can’t imagine any playoffs going past July 24 — the scheduled start of the Tokyo Olympics. If there are playoffs, there will be Olympics. Elliotte Friedman | March 13, 2020, 6:59 PM Bettman also said the NHL is willing to be creative. So, understanding that we are painting a blank canvas that might never reach The Louvre, here are some ideas: Sportsnet’s Rory Boylen, our NHL Editor, asked me to try and answer questions about where we are and where we’re going. Since I always do • The same structure we know, with teams decided via points percentage everything Rory asks, here’s my attempt: after the season was halted on Wednesday: While, at this time, I’d love to know we’d see any kind of playoffs at all, this is a terrible idea. One WHAT HAS TO HAPPEN FOR THE LEAGUE TO DECIDE IT’S SAFE player, whose team would barely miss under this plan, said he and his TO RESUME GAMES? WOULD THE LEAGUE COME BACK AND teammates would do anything possible to block it. Besides, it is PLAY IN FRONT OF EMPTY ARENAS? uninspiring. We can do a lot better. That’s impossible to know for sure, but one thing several interested • Everyone gets to 72 games and we go from there with the top eight on parties (executives, agents, players) agree on is that you can’t have a points. Also boring, and no guarantee there will be time for any regular situation where you start up again, then have to stop. You can’t resume season games. until you have as much assurance as can possibly exist that you’re going to be able to finish. • One GM suggested a March Madness-style event if we have to wait until June. I’m not crazy about single-elimination, so maybe best two-of- During his Friday appearance on , NHL Commissioner three — but the idea is intriguing. Gary Bettman said the season will resume “when it’s appropriate and when it’s safe so that everybody can be comfortable. (Our governments) • Several teams have pushed a seven-versus-10 and eight-versus-nine will tell us. We’re not equipped to say the pandemic is over.” play-in for a couple of years, and this is a perfect opportunity to try it. Two games, total goals, back-to-back nights, the higher-seeded team getting To be perfectly honest, it could come down to how we live our lives the both home games. I loved the idea until a friend reached out and said he next few weeks. If we’re smart about cleanliness, working from home (as didn’t like the total goals idea because, if one team wins the first game 5- much as you can) and not overcrowding — especially if sick — we’ve got 1, the second game is useless. His suggestion: the first game is 60 a better chance of a quicker recovery. Make good choices, everyone. minutes no matter what. If one team wins, the other must win the second NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said Thursday the “pause” will last a game in regulation to force sudden death overtime. That way, you could minimum of 30 days. NHL players were told at least three weeks, but see a goalie pull late in a tied Game 2 if the Game 1 loser needs to that’s not set in stone — more of a “don’t expect anything before that.” score. (If the first game is a tie, the second determines what happens.) No professional tennis tour event will be held before April 20. Illinois I like this even better. It keeps the drama in case of a Game 1 blowout. Governor J.B. Pritzker said Thursday he recommended any sporting event played in the state before May 1 have no fans in attendance, and Your 2020 playoff matchups (via points percentage) would be: that team owners agreed with the move. Main Bracket: Lowest-seeded winner/St. Louis; Dallas/Colorado; When the NHL, NBA, MLB and MLS announced their temporary media Highest-seeded winner/Vegas; Vancouver/Edmonton. guidelines earlier this week, it was no coincidence they did it together. They’re getting the same information and clearly are in communication This should be the regular format, never mind for this season. with each other. Can’t imagine it would be any different when it is time to To be honest, I’d find room for Arizona and the Rangers too, because play again. they were both within striking distance and this year should be about WHAT WILL THE IMPACT BE ON ESCROW AND THE SALARY CAP? maximizing excitement. (I tried to include them, but 22 is not an easy number.) Anthony Stewart made a really good point, that the Could be substantial. Right now, the players are being paid with minimal NHL/NHLPA would want the Rangers because they are a huge revenue league revenue made. Since the CBA is designed to be 50/50, their team and there will be a loss to make up. If you want to get to 24, we’re escrow — already a bone of contention — will see a significant spike if talking Chicago and Montreal. I’m laughing as I type it, because I can play doesn’t resume. The highest escrow rate I can remember being only imagine the reaction, but it’s all about the Benjamins, ya know. deducted was 22.5 per cent, around the time of the 2009 NHL All-Star Game in Montreal. One player said Friday he thought the percentage None of this even mentions a format, whether best-of-five, home games held up if there’s no more hockey would not be far from that. on back-to-back nights for Games 1-4, etc. Let’s go for something fun and different. As for the cap: before Wednesday, the word being floated around was $700 million in revenues at risk. As the pause was being announced, the WHEN WILL PLAYERS OR TEAMS BE ALLOWED TO PRACTICE number was $1 billion. One week after an $84-$88 million cap estimate, AGAIN? there is worry it will go below the $81.5 million we’re at for 2019-20. For now, players have been told to go back to their in-season NHL home (Some teams were getting ready to present their 2020-21 ticket and stay there. No practices, nothing. “Self-quarantine,” was the phrase packages, too.) used in a memo sent out Friday by Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly. Work A lower cap doesn’t just hurt the players, it hurts the teams. The NHL out at home and not in a public gym. Rinks and practice facilities are wouldn’t want a situation where teams had to buy out three guys to hit a closed, although injured players can get treatment. As the NHL indicated lower number. At a time when CBA discussions are going on anyway, in its statement, it is impossible to believe every player is unaffected, so there is incentive for the NHL and NHLPA to work together on this. In the early advice is to stay put and be smart. 2011-12, the cap number was $64.3 million. The next season was shrunk (There is an exception for those recently traded. They can go to their to 48 games because of a lockout. The two sides agreed that, no matter start-of-year dwellings, although the US-Canada border is getting trickier what, 2013-14 would be back at $64.3 million. So, there’s precedent. by the day.) The pandemic has shaken economies and stoked fears of a recession. You know players, though. They’re going to want to get on the ice, as Does that change the conversation between the NHL and NHLPA, create soon as possible. Even if it is just in small groups to stretch their legs and a desire for certainty at an uncertain time? fumble around with the puck. Friday’s memo discourages group skates. “We’re looking out in calendar to see what’s the last day we can be The hope is that can happen in seven-to-10 days, which would lead to a playing under scenarios and then backing up (from there),” Bettman said. minicamp and then we’ll see. Pray to your deity of choice. “And what are our options in the time frame that’s available. Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman talk to a lot of people around the hockey world, and then they tell listeners all about what they’ve heard and what they think about it.

IF THE NHL PLAYS INTO JULY WOULD THE FOLLOWING SEASON START LATER? AND IF SO, HOW WOULD THAT SEASON FIT INTO THE REGULAR SCHEDULE? HOW WOULD CONTRACTS THAT EXPIRE ON JULY 1 WORK? IF THE SEASON DOES GET CANCELLED OR WE JUMP RIGHT INTO THE PLAYOFFS UPON RETURN, HOW WILL THE DRAFT LOTTERY BE DONE? HOW WOULD THE DRAFT BE CONDUCTED?

The Commissioner told Jeff Marek and crew that he sees 2020-21 as no different than a regular year. I assumed if we went into July that would mean a pushback, but I guess anything could be negotiated with the players.

He also mentioned the possibility of a draft via video conference. There’s also the possibility of something smaller-scale, as was done in 2005, following the full-season lockout.

This year’s draft lottery was scheduled to be held at the NHL Network’s studios, so that should be an easier adjustment. As for how the odds would be weighed, I don’t know if they’d change from the final standings.

Free agency? You move the date. Contracts past July 1? You can always agree to extend what needs to be extended. The 2013 NHL Awards were presented during the 2013 Stanley Cup Final, with the winners interviewed during the broadcasts. Solutions can be found.

So many questions, not enough answers. All we can do is make good choices.

Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180905 Websites If the playoffs get cancelled, the focus shifts away from the best teams in the NHL, the true Cup contenders for April and May playoffs, to the worst teams in the league.

Sportsnet.ca / How NHL ultimately handles draft lottery of great interest In other words, the Ottawa Senators, with three first-round picks, might to Senators fans become relevant players in the league’s biggest show — the draft lottery and draft, which could become all there is to get excited about hockey- wise this spring.

Wayne Scanlan March 13, 2020, 2:48 PM As the NHL declared the season on hold, the Ottawa Senators were frozen in 30th overall in a 31-team league. Whether the league is able to

resume the regular season or not, it seems likely Ottawa will remain in The larger story, of course, extends far beyond the games people play. penultimate place, high above the Detroit Red Wings, who cannot be out- tanked. Lives are at stake and health care systems threatened in the coronavirus pandemic. Schools are being closed. Public gatherings are either under The draft rankings will depend on what the NHL opts to do to sort things scrutiny or outright banned. out. If all teams can play 82 games, great. That is the best-case scenario for hockey. More likely, the league will either go to a points-per-game The irony for the impacted sports fan: If we are to face widespread formula or roll the standings back to 68 quarantine at some point during this global crisis, how on earth are we supposed to pass the time indoors if the sports leagues are all shut games, so that each team will have played the same number. down? The greatest reality TV shows of all are on pause, for who knows In a points per game case, Ottawa would remain 30th. If the league rolled how long. Time for the networks to get creative. the standings back to Game 68, the Senators would climb to 29th with 62 The NHL announced Thursday it would follow the NBA’s lead and put its points and Los Angeles would slip to 30th with 60. regular season on hold. Welcome to Tankville, an upside down world where bad is good and “Our goal is to resume play as soon as it is appropriate and prudent, so losing brings a team closer to draft nirvana. Unlike last year, when that we will be able to complete the season and award the Stanley Cup,” Colorado owned Ottawa’s first draft pick, the Senators have their own said NHL commissioner Gary Bettman in a statement. first choice in 2020 plus the top picks of the San Jose Sharks

It would be sweet if a simple “pause” for a couple of weeks would permit and the New York Islanders. things to improve and the season to be back on. Assuming the standings remain closer to their frozen state, or a points- The problem is the opposition, this virus, is tougher and more sustainable per game basis, on their own, the Senators only have a 13.5 per cent than an all-star team of the best NHL players. It will relent when it relents. chance of selecting first overall. But, add in the pick of the Sharks And, while the league’s goal is to award the Stanley Cup this season, (currently 29th) and they have an additional 11.5 per cent given the growth in positive cases in North America in recent days, there shot at picking No. 1, or 25 per cent overall. In other words, better odds is at least a chance that there may be no more regular season hockey than the Red Wings. games, no playoff series for which teams have battled for nearly six months. In many respects, the draft has come full circle, with Ottawa holding such a prominent place in the proceedings. After all, it was largely because of The last time the NHL didn’t award the Stanley Cup, due to the 2004-05 the Senators that a draft lottery exists today. lockout, it was easy to blame a league and its players for a cold-hearted business miss. In 1993, Senators founder let it slip to reporters that Ottawa was happily tanking in order to select Alexandre Daigle with the This stoppage is closer to the 1919 Spanish flu pandemic which halted first overall pick. Firestone was fined $100,000 by the NHL for his the Cup series between Montreal and Seattle after five games. Several temerity and by 1995 a draft lottery was put into place to dissuade teams members of the Canadiens were sick with the flu and one of them, from finishing last on purpose. defenceman Joe Hall, 37, died of pneumonia after contracting Today, teams tank more discreetly and face tougher odds, even worse the illness. than they were six years ago, when a last-place team had a 25 per cent When the NBA learned on Wednesday evening that one of its players shot at winning the lottery. (and now more) had contracted the coronavirus, it reacted swiftly, The Senators will take their chances with 25 per cent odds in April – or suspending its season. whenever the draft lottery gets the green light. LeBron James tweeted, can we just cancel 2020 altogether? Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 03.14.2020 “Damn it’s been a rough three months,” LeBron said. “God bless and stay safe.”

In hockey circles, things have changed a little since that last Cup-busting flu pandemic.

Instead of interrupting a comparatively quaint final series of 101 years ago, today’s pandemic threatens a multi-billion dollar business and multi- layered economic models that depend on ticket sales, playoff revenues and sponsorship deals.

If it loses the rest of the regular season and playoffs the NHL would be taking a hit, the ramifications of which will be widespread, impacting revenue sharing, salary caps and the bottom lines of individual, cash-flow dependent franchises (hello from Ottawa).

It will also, eventually, get back to regular business, and when it does the draft lottery, tentatively scheduled for April, will sort out which teams get the choice picks in the 2020 NHL draft in June. These dates are no longer certain as the NHL attempts to finish its season, asking clubs to check on arena availability through the month of July. 1180906 Websites Hopefully, the show will resume in a couple or a few weeks. The NHL’s optimism was evident in its choice of words on Thursday. We all hope this is a pause, but there is no way to know for sure because we have never seen times like these. Sportsnet.ca / NHL makes wise, safe decision as hearts ache for hockey This peculiar game – men in stockings, playing on ice and moving faster on their skates than any humans not powered by a motor or gravity – has so often lifted and thrilled us, and pulled our vast country together as it Iain MacIntyre | March 13, 2020, 10:42 AM pulled fans to arenas and viewers to televisions.

Hockey does more than just entertain us. Major professional sports have Before you read this love letter to hockey, let’s make something clear: the always been a kind of fantasy world, a diversion or escapism, where National Hockey League absolutely did the right thing Thursday we’re all welcome and provided a rooftop from which to bellow without “pausing” its season in the face of one of the greatest threats of our shame in either great joy or frustration. At its best, they give us hope. lifetime. Hockey in Canada is the exciting promise about the best of what is possible. The coronavirus looks like a tsunami barrelling towards us. You can’t really tell with waves how large they are until they are pushed up by the With that terrifying tsunami looming, we could sure use some of that seabed near shore and break. But COVID-19 looks like a monster. And hope now. seeing it coming and growing bigger by the day, it would be Hurry back. As soon as it is safe. incomprehensibly dangerous and stupid to simply stand on the beach and hope the water doesn’t come over your head and sweep you away. Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 03.14.2020 Hockey is a game. The coronavirus has already killed more than 5,000 people around the world.

The NHL is doing the sensible thing, the safest thing it can do. But even as the brain registers this, the heart aches for the game. Our game.

For most Canadians, hockey has provided many of the mile-markers in our lives. If you’re old enough, of course you remember Paul Henderson, possibly in black-and-white, from 1972, then and Mario Lemieux in 1987, Salt Lake City in 2002 and Sidney Crosby in Vancouver in 2010. And that’s just Team Canada.

Everyone in NHL cities has a few hockey bookmarks.

For fans of the Vancouver Canucks, they include the three failed runs to the Stanley Cup final, Pavel Bure’s arrival in 1991, Trevor Linden’s departure and return as a player. Many Calgary Flames fans remember the two Cup finals against the Montreal Canadiens, especially the win in 1989, and Edmonton Oilers fans have the dynasty, Steve Smith’s own goal, the Gretzky trade, the run out of nowhere to another final in 2006, and the arrival of Connor McDavid in 2015. And in Winnipeg there was the Jets’ departure for Phoenix in 1996, their glorious return from Atlanta in 2011, Teemu Selanne and Patrik Laine as rookies.

In many NHL cities it is like this, but in Canada it is always this way. We stop to watch, and we remember.

The game has never been better, even if the last eight years could have scarcely been worse on the ice for Canada’s seven teams, which haven’t made a Stanley Cup final since the Canucks lost to the Boston Bruins in 2011.

In eight tournaments since then, Canadian teams have won a total of 10 playoff rounds, and only four years ago qualified no one for the post- season.

But then there is this season. Thursday’s announcement interrupted a playoff race for the ages out West, where the Canucks, Flames, Oilers and Jets are all in the mix.

And none of their stories have been dull or predictable. Rebuilt around Elias Pettersson and Quinn Hughes, the Canucks are a thrill-ride to watch, and challenging for a playoff spot ahead of schedule. The Oilers have merely two of the best players in the game in McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, and have come farther than anyone thought in the first season under coach Dave Tippett and general manager Ken Holland. The Flames have persevered through a coaching scandal and change and, in February, the absence of Norris Trophy winner Mark Giordano. And then there are the Jets, who found themselves without an NHL defence when the season began but somehow have been pushed back into playoff position by goalie Connor Hellebuyck and a band of elite forwards.

Due to proximity on the map and in the standings, Western Canada’s teams – and not just the two separated by a stretch of Alberta prairie — are again fierce rivals, unified only by the zeal of their fans and the enjoyment over the Toronto Maple Leafs’ ongoing scuffle.

The NHL has been riveting this season, again the best reality show going. 1180907 Websites When Andersson’s alarm went off at 8:15 Thursday morning his plan was to head to the rink for the morning skate in preparation for the Flames’ scheduled home game against the New York Islanders.

Sportsnet.ca / Flames' Andersson agrees with season pause, unfair to But when checking his phone he saw a text from the director of team play without fans operations, Sean O’Brien, telling him to stay home, as all morning skates were cancelled while league officials held a conference call to ultimately follow the NBA’s footsteps by pausing the season.

Eric Francis | March 13, 2020, 3:57 PM “We were watching TV (Wednesday night) and with the NBA’s decision you had it in the back of your mind (hockey could follow suit), but you’re

not really sure,” said the Swedish native, who added that a meeting with CALGARY – Like most people, Rasmus Andersson is convinced the NHL the NHLPA on Wednesday informed him they were unsure what might made the right move by pausing the season. happen and were taking things “a half day at a time.”

“I think so,” said the Flames defenceman, one of the first NHL players to “It’s something you can’t predict. It sucks, especially this time of year comment publicly on Thursday’s abrupt shutdown. when everything is so close.”

“I don’t think it’s fair to anyone if you play without fans. The fans, in many Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 03.14.2020 ways, pay your salary, and not to be able to come to the games is not fair, in my opinion. If we’re off a week, a few days, two weeks or we go directly into the playoffs, or we play three, four, five more games, it’s hard to say because you don’t really know. But they should be able to watch.”

Right now that’s impossible, due to the increasing number of locales around the league and the world prohibiting gatherings of more than 250 people.

At some point, those restrictions will be lifted.

When that will happen is anyone’s guess.

And while there are certainly many who think it’s unlikely such bans will be lifted in time to salvage any semblance of the season, Andersson is optimistic the season won’t be scrapped like it was for the 2004-05 lockout and the 1918-19 finals due to the Spanish Flu.

“I would be surprised with that,” said Andersson, 23.

“One way or another we have to do playoffs. If we wait two, three, four weeks…we’ve played 70-plus games this year. They should do the playoffs at least.”

League officials are already hard at work trying to piece together tentative schedules and modified playoff formats to finish what would be a truncated season, while also trying to answer other questions that loom.

Can players leave their respective towns anytime soon? When and where can they work out or practice? Is it wise to practice together or skate separately? Will they continue to get paid? Will they be insured during informal skates?

As players like Andersson sit at home, participating in team group chats while awaiting direction, speculation grows as quickly as the virus spreads.

Andersson confirmed he and his teammates haven’t been tested for COVID-19, and said he wouldn’t be shocked if he found out one of his teammates tested positive for it.

“I would be a little surprised, but at the same time I wouldn’t because of how fast it spreads,” said Andersson.

“Me and my girlfriend care about it a lot, and have been really careful – I’ve never washed my hands as much as I have the last week.

“I’ve heard people can have it without them even knowing they have it. That’s the scary part too. If someone on our team had it, or has it, then probably 10 or 15 guys would have it because we’re so close to each other every day at the rink and on game days we’re with each other five to six hours a day. Honestly, you just don’t know, and that’s the scary part about it.”

Is he concerned he may have it, given the number of arenas he’s been in of late that overlap with NBA teams?

“A little bit, obviously,” said Andersson.

“I haven’t heard anybody from our team who has it. It’s so hard to say. It’s a scary thing, but everything we’ve heard is it’s kind of like the flu. You’re not really worried about yourself, but you’re worried about the elderly and sick people.” 1180908 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Bettman on halting 2019-20 NHL season, getting 'creative' with playoff format

Sportsnet Staff | March 13, 2020, 3:19 PM

With concern over the COVID-19 outbreak growing both internationally and here in North America, the NHL took steps to prevent the spread of the virus Thursday, shutting down the season for the time being until it’s deemed safe to bring fans, players and staff together again.

It’s an unprecedented move for the League and the sports world at large, as seemingly every major sporting league and event has come to a halt in the wake of COVID-19’s impact. Speaking with Sportsnet 590’s Brian Burke, Jeff Marek, Anthony Stewart and Justin Bourne on Hockey Central, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman shed light on the league’s thinking leading up to the decision to halt play.

“We had, throughout the last few weeks, been constantly analyzing what was evolving, what the situation was, and what our responses need to be, and what all the possible contingencies could be,” Bettman said Friday. “We were exploring whether or not it was going to reach a point in time we needed to completely shut down, whether or not we needed to take a break, or how we would continue to play — whether it was in all empty buildings relative to fans, or in part-empty buildings, depending on what local jurisdictions were doing.

“But in all of those scenarios and in every discussion I would have, either internally or with clubs, particularly owners, I would always end it with the caveat, ‘You understand that if a player tests positive, we’re done for the time being, at least.’ So I always understood that to be the case.”

When Utah Jazz star Rudy Gobert test positive for COVID-19, spurring an immediate hiatus from the NBA, the NHL felt it was best to follow suit and get ahead of a similar situation occurring in the hockey world.

“I said, ‘At this point, it’s inevitable that an NHL player at some point is going to test positive. We’re not going to get through this current season as scheduled, and we might as well just shut down now so that we don’t get to the point that we have to react the way the NBA did,'” Bettman recalled.

With the 2019-20 campaign now on hiatus with a timeline yet to be determined, and certainly not set in stone, the commissioner also detailed how he and the league’s senior staff are handling the situation.

“We have an internal task force that has been meeting two times a day, in the morning and afternoon, and we are exploring every contingency. We’re looking out in [the] calendar to see, ‘Well, what’s the last day we could be playing under other scenarios?’ and then backing it up. And then what are our options in the timeframe that’s available?” Bettman told Sportsnet 590.

“We’re doing all sorts of modelling, whether it’s completing the existing regular season as is and then a full playoffs, or whether or not based on time constraints we’re going to have to make adjustments and do something different, novel, creative.”

Bettman later elaborated on what that potential playoff format could look like if and when the league does return this season, with the post-season picture mostly in view but plenty of clubs still with room to have climbed back in had league play not been paused.

“We are looking at every contingency and what’s doable, so yes, everything – for consideration – is on the table,” he said. “It doesn’t mean that any of those are going to happen. I don’t want to speculate as to which direction we’re going in. We are analyzing every conceivable option that is available to us, and that’s not something that’s static. In other words, what’s an option today, there may be different options – fewer options, more options, who knows – next week.

“And so, my hope and expectation is that we can finish the season in some form, award the Stanley Cup, and then be able to move on knowing that we accomplished that goal of finishing the season for our fans.”

Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180909 Websites The ultimate jock, he loved talking and playing sports, and knew their importance in Alberta.

After working tirelessly behind the scenes to support a Save the Flames Sportsnet.ca / Ken King's firm handshake and dedication were driving campaign, he was hired in 2001 by the Flames owners to run the team. force behind Flames It was the perfect gig for a man who could both charm the masses, while also clamping down on the type of hard, internal decisions that needed to be made. His business acumen was as legendary as his dedication to Eric Francis | March 13, 2020, 12:48 AM the city.

The owners loved him for all he did on their behalf, including his tireless work as the driving force behind the new arena that took him 14 years to CALGARY – That handshake. nail down. It’s what commanded the attention of anyone who ever met Ken King. The last handful of those frustrating years came while he was quietly It dwarfed the hand of most, and was almost always accompanied by a battling cancer that ultimately spread to his brain and his spine, forcing devious smile and tug towards his formidable frame. him to a wheelchair his last few months.

It demanded your respect and was held just long enough to let you know He survived many years longer than doctors expected, thanks in the end he was in control. to experimental drugs he knew bought him more time to complete his legacy project – the event centre. That’s just the way the pride of Hanley, Sask., always liked it – with him setting the terms of any encounter from the start. “It’s an amazing thing, the human body and brain, and he was totally focused on a new event centre to the city,” said Bean. His were the hands that guided the Calgary Flames for two decades, until he passed away following a lengthy cancer battle Wednesday at 68. “He was integral right up until December, whenever we signed all those documents, and provided unbelievable advice and guidance to all of us Through endless crises and celebrations on and off the ice, he was a to get it done. It was one of those projects for him he was so passionate man of tremendous passion and dedication, who was never shy to raise about. He had an unbelievable drive on every aspect he undertook. He his fists in celebration or fury. was a large man of stature – almost larger than life – and commanded the room whenever he walked in. With that energy, he tackled so many They were also the hands that authored the demise of anyone who ever things.” teed it up with him on the golf course. The man who worked a room better than anyone I ever saw was forced “Anyone who golfed with Ken knows, he had the scorecard, and it took the last three or four years to abandon the handshake he was so proudly scientists to figure out all the dollars that changed hands at the end of the known for. day,” said Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation President and CEO John Bean, before adding a rare claim It was replaced by fist bumps, as he worried his increasingly rare public appearances would expose his immune-deficient body to dangerous “I took money from him, absolutely. And I was proud to do it. And he viruses. knows it.” The day Jarome Iginla had his number retired King shared with me his He might have been the only one. rare nerves, as his leg wasn’t cooperating fully, making the very public Every game started with a carefully crafted dissertation from King on how step up to the luncheon podium for his speech a scary one. He endured. many strokes every player would get or give him, with a blatant disregard He always did. for the handicaps offered up. While many in and around the organization know of his valiant battle, he A wordsmith whose speeches around town were as eloquent as any in wanted it kept quiet, telling me one day, “I’m not letting this define me in the province, the former newspaper publisher would punctuate the any way.” receipt of post-game payment with little more than that grin. Over an emotional lunch between the two of us almost a year ago he told For many years he wore that smile ever-so-proudly into the Flames me of his newfound love of dropping into local casinos to play poker. dressing room after games, slapping the backs of journalists as he His rule, there was no hockey talk – just cards, and all the wonderful walked in, exchanging small talk with everyone. games within the game it involved. He had a line for everything. At lunch he pulled out a fat billfold, proudly declaring the windfalls he so “I remember my first interview I went to shake his hand and he drilled me often enjoyed on the golf course were still possible. in the side of my arm and almost knocked my arm off – that was Ken,” Despite his severe weight loss and radiation treatments, he swore he said Flames GM Brad Treliving. played some of the best golf of his life last summer. I shuddered at how “One of the things I always admired about him was he was a wonderful much that would cost me. public speaker. I’d call him on it sometimes and say, ‘that’s not even a When he missed the Flames recent poker tournament I knew he had to word.’ He’d show me that it was.’” be in bad shape, as he loved gatherings like that more than anyone. King long showed the way for a Flames ownership group that wanted Last week, King rolled into the to make his final nothing to do with the spotlight. King was their frontman – their eyes, visit, taking the time to chat with the coaches and several players. ears and their mouthpiece, prompting him to take endless bullets from frustrated fans over various team shortcomings. “He always loved coming down and seeing the guys,” said Treliving.

As the publisher of both major dailies in Calgary over the course of “I know that meant a lot to the guys. He knew a little tidbit on each guy. almost three decades, and as the Flames boss, he had a reputation for He liked that – he was a guy’s guy.” being hard to work for. His love for wife Marilyn and daughters Amanda and Jocelin were rivalled “You talk about an explosive personality – he was a sight to behold,” said only by his four grandchildren, who he strived to spend as much time as Treliving, who saw every side of King. possible with after receiving his diagnosis.

“But he’s a foxhole guy. When bleep was rolling downhill, he was a guy Commissioner Gary Bettman saluted King as a champion of all Calgary you wanted to be in a foxhole with.” sports.

I met King in 1994 when, as the publisher of the Calgary Sun, he invited “His staunch advocacy for the arena project that will guarantee the me out from for a job interview. Flames’ long-term viability in Calgary will serve as a legacy of his devotion to the city – Ken was a friend and I will miss him greatly,” said Greeted by the handshake and the western charm, he took a chance on Bettman. me as a sports scribe. “He was a trusted confidant to all of the Flames owners, both past and present, and we all learned so much from him,” added Flames co-owner Murray Edwards.

“My partners and I will miss our frequent conversations with our dear friend.”

As will I. I’ll miss his advice, his wit, his handshake, but most of all his friendship – he was always happy to take my money any time we teed it up.

“He could be intimidating, but at the end of the day he was just a big teddy bear,” said longtime Calgary publisher Guy Huntingford.

“For me, he was so thoughtful, which you might not expect from somebody who ran his organizations as a tough customer. But my god, if he was in your camp he’d go to the end of the world for you.”

Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180910 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Rangers' Brendan Lemieux to be suspended for hit on Donskoi

Sportsnet Staff | March 13, 2020, 2:01 PM

The NHL season has been paused indefinitely, but the league’s department of player safety was still active on Friday.

New York Rangers forward Brendan Lemieux will be suspended for his hit on Colorado Avalanche forward Joonas Donskoi that occurred during Wednesday night’s contest. The details of the suspension are currently unclear and will be determined once the NHL establishes guidelines on resumption of play.

Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 03.14.2020 1180911 Websites NHLPA Executive Director Donald Fehr joined the Ray and Dregs podcast on Friday. With the NHL in uncharted waters, Fehr discussed the league's current situation.

TSN.CA / NHL urges players to ‘self-quarantine’ to help save season It’s anyone’s guess what happens after that.

The NHL’s Board of Governors were told in a conference call on Thursday to expect the pause to last at least three weeks. NBA Frank Seravalli commissioner Adam Silver said in a letter to fans that his league’s suspension would last at least 30 days.

Bettman told reporters on Friday that he didn’t want to put a timetable on The best indication that the NHL has a strong chance to resume this it. The return to play won’t be determined necessarily by Bettman and season and hand out the Stanley Cup may be if we don't see players Daly, but by health experts who will give a green light, along with a surfacing out and about in public via social media. healthy dose of common sense. A league task force is meeting twice a The COVID-19 virus cannot be controlled, but exposure to it can be day on the subject, while the league’s top brass works through any mitigated. number of possibly contingency plans.

That is the message the NHL sent to its teams and players on Friday in a “I’m optimistic we will be able at some point to get through the season memorandum that was written in conjunction with the NHL Players’ and award the Stanley Cup,” Bettman said. “That’s the hope.” Association. TSN.CA LOADED: 03.14.2020 The NHL “strongly” encouraged players to “self-quarantine” in their homes for “the next week or so.”

“While self-quarantine will undoubtedly impose lifestyle limitations and may seem like an overly precautions measure, adherence to these principles for the relatively brief period of time … should allow us to be in the best position possible to assess next steps regarding the potential resumption of play,” NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly wrote.

How seriously NHL players – and club personnel who are in close contact with players on a frequent basis – take the recommendation could have a large say on the timetable to return.

To this point, no NHL player has been reported to test positive for novel coronavirus. Dallas Stars forward Alex Radulov was tested for the virus, but the team and the league are awaiting results.

The NHL and NHLPA have bargained an agreement as to what the players can and cannot do for the foreseeable future. Hockey Insider joins Gino Reda to outline some of the key points of the agreement.

Any player or staff member who develops symptoms, or a person sharing a home develops symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19, are instructed to consult with their team’s medical staff immediately.

A positive test could set back an NHL timeline. Commissioner Gary Bettman said Friday that NBA player Rudy Gobert testing positive meant “all bets are off” ­ forcing the NHL to hit pause on the 2019-20 season.

“It was clear to me that no matter what scenario we came up with that we continued to play with, either with or without fans, it was inconceivable, certainly unlikely that we were going to get through the rest of the regular season at a minimum without somebody testing positive,” Bettman told the AP.

As part of the self-quarantine, the NHL’s memo on Friday urged players to “remain in your home as much as possible and practicable and avoid unnecessary interactions with non-family members or roommates.”

Players who live apart from their family during the season – like players who have been traded – are permitted to return to their primary residence. Once there, they have been instructed to avoid any further travel, including public transportation and ride-sharing.

For the most part, team practice facilities are to be off-limits, except for players with “disabling injuries.” Even those players with injuries were encouraged to communicate and continue rehab via alternative means, including FaceTime or webinar, to any extent possible.

The NHL also asked players to not organize informal skates at public facilities, because players will be afforded “sufficient time to resume skating and game preparation activities prior to any resumption of play.”

Following this period of “self-quarantine,” the NHL said it hopes to be in a “position to transition.” The first step would be to re-open club facilities for conditioning, followed by “a training camp period during which practices are scheduled and game preparation would resume.”

Until then, the NHL told players that they will receive each of their final three paycheques of the season, scheduled for Friday (March 13), March 30 and April 15.