Scott Wheeler of The Athletic reported on Thursday that the OHL sent a memo to teams to lay out the return to play plans for the league.
The OHL is planning on a 24-game schedule, which would begin in April, and would be played in four different hub cities. Players would quarantine at home during March and the season could begin as early as April 2. The plan, which the memo said was subject to government approval, would also have quarantine requirements for import players.
Meanwhile, OHL commissioner David Branch issued a statement Thursday on the status of the OHL’s return to play plan.
“First and foremost, the Ontario Hockey League is anxious to return to play and eager to get our players back on the ice to drop the puck on a 2020-21 Regular Season. As we have for many months, we continue to work hard toward ensuring a safe return to play for everyone,” said commissioner Branch.
“We are encouraged by our ongoing discussions with Government and Public Health agencies, but have not yet arrived at an approved Return to Play framework for the coming season.”
“The League will share more information with our players, families, staff, billets and tremendous fans as a finalized plan for a safe return to the ice becomes available “
The OHL was originally set to begin its season in December. That start date was pushed to Feb. 4 and then in late-December, with provincial shutdowns in Ontario, the league said the season was suspended indefinitely.