Well, that was a fun little ride for Leafs Nation. Now back to summer, like we were two weeks ago. As long as Montreal get promptly eliminated (and the Buds end up with Lafreniere!)
By the time we were down 3-0, a couple of us started conjecturing about next season, and how it could be played. The thinking was that if we keep things calm on the viral front, the bubble could maybe be loosened a bit for players over a 5+ month season. Presuming the US remains in chaos, and assuming the league didn't just return to the current bubble setup, we've done a dream scenario. Unlikely but fun to imagine:
All the American clubs move into a CHL city for the next season. Arenas would be brought up to a minimal NHL standard in terms of media and player facilities. So you might get the Windsor Red Wings or Kelowna Coyotes. Maybe you go Canada-wide but maybe you concentrate on one group in Southern Ontario and one in the WHL to minimise flights. Perhaps one or two teams could share NHL facilities and take over a GoodLife for additional gym space.
Over the long season, and presuming we continue to keep Covid under control, players would be free to move themselves and their families into rented homes in their towns, or to remain in a team hotel. There would be strict rules against players and their families being out and about at restos or the grocery store - maybe sign a deal for delivery with Skip or groceries from Voila. If a player is seen in public (like at a bar, maybe not just out for a walk), the team would lose three points in the standings. Twice daily Covid tests for players and their families. Presuming it's safe to do so, arenas could open with limited capacity.
The CHL may have to schedule around NHL but it would probably be worth it for a chunk of the big TV money and arena upgrades.
Any thoughts? I know it's sort of pie in the sky but maybe our best shot at a proper Canadian top-tier hockey league. I know Quebec City would love it
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