NHL News: Reactions to an all Canadian division, Kraken training center, and more
Anthony Scultore
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Today the NHL will update the Board of Governors about next season. This week Gary Bettman discussed the league’s January 1 target date. He also mentioned scheduling and possible realignment, including a Canadian division.
NHL Canadian Division
“Obviously, we’re not going to move all seven Canadian franchises south of the 49th Parallel, and so we have to look at alternative ways to play,” Bettman told the 2020 Paley International Council Summit.
While this has been rumored for some time, it is now becoming more and more a possibility. Here’s what some around the NHL think.
Claude Julien, Head Coach of the Canadiens: “The Canadian teams are quite strong. It might be a very competitive division.”
Brendan Gallagher, Canadiens: “If that is the case, an all-Canadian division, I think it would be pretty unique… at the same time, there’s a little bit of pride involved when you’re playing for your Canadian division.”
Mitch Marner, Maple Leafs: “It would definitely be interesting.”
Bo Horvat, Canucks: “It would be pretty cool, especially for Canadian hockey fans. It’ll be heated and it’ll be some good hockey if it happens.”
Seattle Kraken will open new training facility in 2021
The Seattle Kraken are on target to open their state-of-the-art training center. While the entire facility will not be complete, the most important parts including the rink, locker rooms, training rooms, and offices will be done.
“It’s important because if the NHL gets back to a regular schedule we need to have an expansion draft, an amateur draft, rookie camps, etc.,” Humphrey said. “So it’s coming at us quick.”
SVP, Todd Humphrey via Sportsnet
Seattle’s facility is being constructed in two phases and will have seating for over 1000 fans at the practice rink.
First look at Golden Knights reverse retro jersey
There’s been a lot of hype over the new Reverse Retro jersey’s coming out from Adidas. Here’s a look at the Golden Knights.