The ECHL Board of Governors has pushed back the start date for the upcoming hockey season. The Wichita Thunder and other teams in the league will begin play on December 4th.
The plan is to continue with a full 72-game schedule, and adjustments to the schedule will be announced later. The season was originally scheduled to begin October 16th.
The ECHL issued a statement announcing the season delay in conjunction with the Professional Hockey Players’ Association:
“We are eager to return to hockey, but at this time we believe this decision is prudent for the safety of our Players, Employees and Fans,” said ECHL Commissioner, Ryan Crelin. “The ECHL and our Board of Governors are focused on the 2020-21 Season and remain optimistic for the safe re-opening of our venues across the continent. We appreciate our partners and fans continued support and patience, as we work together with our venues, local health officials and the members of the PHPA’s Executive Committee towards the safe return of ECHL hockey.”
