Even though he’s back in Toronto and training almost every day, Maple Leafs goalkeeper Frederik Andersen said Tuesday that he was not yet certain that the National Hockey League (NHL) would resume activities.
Senior officials of the circuit and the Players’ Association are still in negotiations to settle certain details, and it seems that elements linked to the next collective agreement are hindering them.
“I’m not 100% sure yet [qu’il y aura un retour]said Andersen in a videoconference on Tuesday. I think the League is very determined to work on the return. I don’t think I have just one concern. There are things that have to be determined, and the players have to vote. I think we have a long way to go. ”
“I am convinced that we will have something to vote for,” he said, while refusing to go ahead with his position without having more information. I want to play. I don’t just want to sit down and spoil the summer or the season. ”
Edmonton and Toronto vying
In order to guarantee the health and safety of the players, but also of all the employees who will work to allow the matches to be played, the NHL has decided to regroup all the teams in two host cities and to create a “bubble” to avoid the spread of COVID-19.
However, due to the resurgence of cases of the disease recently in the United States, Commissioner Gary Bettman could opt for two Canadian cities, Edmonton and Toronto. Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Chicago are also considered.
“I think once we get to the host cities, everyone will have to trust that the league has a good plan. So once we get there, we’ll be good, but I think it’s a matter of getting there in the first place. ”
No home benefits
Andersen and his Maple Leafs teammates could play all of the playoff games at home. The absence of fans in the stands should however cancel the advantage usually granted to the home team.
“Personally, I don’t think it will really make a difference,” said Andersen.
If the recovery were to take place, the Maple Leafs would cross paths with the Columbus Blue Jackets in the qualifying round.
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