While there are still details to work out, the NHL made key return-to-play announcements on Tuesday. The highlights include: how the 24-team playoff format works, potential choices for two “hub cities,” and information on the 2020 NHL Draft Lottery.
In this plan, the Minnesota WILD would make the 24 team Playoffs! But it may get better for MN, St. Paul is in consideration to be one of two "hub cities"!
Phase 1: Pause and self-quarantine. Regular season considered over.The NHL instituted the pandemic pause on March 12, with the regular season marked as ending as of March 11. The top 12 teams from each conference enter the 24-team playoff format, with positioning based on points percentage.
Phase 2: Noncontact skating for players in small groups at team facilities. The hopeful starting date for Phase 2 is early June.
Phase 3:Formal training camps starting “no earlier than the first half of July.”
Phase 4:24-team playoff (including seeding games, play-in rounds) must still be determined.
The Full Story Here: https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2020/05/26/nhl-announces-return-to-play-plans-24-team-playoff-format-two-hub-cities/