Report: Vote and Announcement for 2021 NHL season expected this week

Anthony Scultore |

Dec 14, 2020

The NHL and NHLPA are expected to hold votes this week to officially approve the 2021 NHL season. Things began to move rapidly once the NHL owners backed off on requiring additional financial concessions.

Rumors abound about when the vote will take place. Speculation has a vote taking place as early as today, with others saying Wednesday. The NHL has stated that a vote needs to be done by the end of the week.

NHL and NHLPA continue to hammer away at details. Until there’s a vote, everything is subject to change. Two sides remain focused on Dec 31 camp start for non-playoff teams. Jan 3rd camp start for the rest of the league. Jan 13th start to 2020-2021 regular season.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) December 10, 2020

What the 2021 NHL Season will look like

Based on all info gathered and reported here’s what we expect:

A 56 game schedule
Puck drop on 1/13/21
Realigned Divisions (still questions here)
Hybrid Hubs (teams play in their own arenas)
Mini home stands like baseball
Extensive testing starting 12/26
10 day training camp
Camps begin 12/28 for non-RTP teams and 1/3 for remaining
No exhibition games
No restrictions on trades between US & Canadian teams
Possibly expanded rosters
Possibly taxi squads
Vaccine may be optional
Ads placed on helmets for additional revenue

Nightmare: Ads on NHL equipment and uniforms coming soon