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The National Hockey League has decided to suspend its season amid concerns over the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak. The New York Post was first to report it was happening, but now it is being reported the NHL made the announcement on Thursday following a 1:00 p.m. Board of Governors call.
As per someone on the Board of Governors call with the NHL, the season has officially been paused.
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) March 12, 2020
The league had released this statement Wednesday night following the news:
National Hockey League Statement Regarding Coronavirus: https://t.co/AKrmh8ao4F pic.twitter.com/PZ7dQBbGVB
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) March 12, 2020
Early Thursday morning, the NHL ordered that all teams cancel morning skates and practices ahead of the expected announcement from the League later in the day.
Given the uncertainty regarding next steps regarding the coronavirus, Clubs are advised not to conduct morning skates, practices or team meetings today.
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) March 12, 2020
The League also sent home any officials who were on the road preparing to call games for Thursday night and into the weekend.
Hearing that on-ice officials who are on the road now to work NHL games have been told to book flights home ....
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) March 12, 2020