FILE - In this May 27, 2019, file photo, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman speaks to the media before Game 1 of the NHL hockey Stanley Cup Finals between the St. Louis Blues and the Boston Bruins, in Boston.
Bettman unveiled a 24-team straight to playoffs format the league will use if it can clear the other hurdles to resume its season.
The NHL and the NHL Players' Association must still figure out health and safety protocols and solve other issues, including where to play.
Bettman has said the goal has always been to play again and award the Stanley Cup, but details remain uncertain.
For us to even finish the season and award (the Stanley Cup), I know a lot of work went into it.