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Thank You, NHL for Successfully Completing the 2019-20 Season

Thank you to the NHL and all involved for pulling of the Return to Play Plan

As Gary Bettman awarded the Stanley Cup to the Tampa Bay Lightning last night, I couldn’t help but notice the lack of boos in Rogers Place.  

It turns out the NHL actually had pre-recorded boos to play during his announcement, although they ultimately chose not to use them.  And it’s a good thing they decided not to because Bettman and the entire NHL should be applauded for what they accomplished with the NHL’s Return to Play plan.

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When the NHL announced it’s Return to Play Plan on May 26, 2020, many cast doubt on their ability to pull it off and questioned their decision to proceed with the season.

https://twitter.com/KingDonutI/status/1281737901441785857

But, as I watched Steven Stamkos hoist the Cup late last night,  I couldn’t help but realize what an amazing accomplishment the NHL pulled off.  Against all odds, the 2019-20 season was completed and a Stanley Cup Champion was crowned.

https://twitter.com/Buccigross/status/1310777738085773313

 

The NHL gave us 63 days of virtually non-stop hockey.  From the first exhibition game between the Penguins and Flyers on July 28, 2020 to Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Finals last night (September 28, 2020), we had the opportunity to watch the best players in the world compete for the best trophy in the world.

And for this, we are thankful.

Thank you to Gary Bettman who lead the league in the face of adversity.

Thank you to the NHL powers that be for having the courage to think outside the box and bring entertainment to fans around the world.

Thank you to the players for putting on an amazing show while grinding it out in less than ideal conditions away from friends and family.

Thank you to the coaches, training staff, and team personnel.

Thank you to all the media members who covered the games and did an amazing job of bringing the action to our living rooms.

Thank you to the arena staff, ice crew, hotel workers, and everyone else involved in Toronto and Edmonton.

Thank you to the healthcare workers who ensured the health and safety of all involved.

Thank you to the countless individuals behind the scenes who helped make this work without a glitch.

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And with that, it’s time for a well-deserved round of stick taps.

https://twitter.com/KathrynTappen/status/1310804164428079104

https://twitter.com/EJHradek_NHL/status/1310785128046751745

https://twitter.com/SNChrisSimpson/status/1310780722580463617

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