The NHL has taken a two-day pause, joining other sports leagues in protesting police brutality.
After much discussion, NHL Players believe that the best course of action would be to take a step back and not play Thursday’s and Friday’s games as scheduled. The NHL supports the Players’ decision and will reschedule those four games beginning Saturday and adjust the remainder of the Second Round schedule accordingly.
Black and Brown communities continue to face real, painful experiences. The NHL and NHLPA recognize that much work remains to be done before we can play an appropriate role in a discussion centered on diversity, inclusion and social justice.
We understand that the tragedies involving Jacob Blake, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others require us to recognize this moment. We pledge to work to use our sport to influence positive change in society.
The NHLPA and NHL are committed to working to foster more inclusive and welcoming environments within our arenas, offices and beyond.
The playoff schedule will resume on Saturday when the Tampa Bay Lightning take on the Boston Bruins at noon, The New York Islanders “host” the Philadelphia Flyers at 7 p.m. and the Vegas Golden Knights face the Vancouver Canucks at 9:45 p.m.
The series between the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars will pick back up on Sunday evening.