We have our first step towards resuming the 2019-20 season with the approval of the return-to-play format by the NHLPA Executive Board.
The 31 NHL team representatives voted and a majority gave the thumbs up to the 24-team, conference-based proposal.
According to TVA’s Renaud Lavoie, the vote was 29-2 in favor.
Now the plan moves on to the Board of Governors for their approval.
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Based on points percentage at the time of the March 12 NHL pause, the top four teams in each conference (Boston, Tampa, Washington, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Colorado, Vegas, Dallas) will receive a first-round bye. Round 1 will feature eight play-in matchups in a best-of-five series.
As the play-in round takes place, the eight conference leaders could potentially take part in a mini tournament that will determine the seeding for Round 2. Reseeding after the play-in round is another topic likely to be discussed.
https://www.yahoo.com/sports/nhlpa-board-approves-24-team-020855452.html