NHL narrows the list of potential “Hub” cities to 6.

The National Hockey League will soon resume the 2019 - 2020 season by kicking off the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs in two separate cities just a little over a month from now. Earlier today reports began to emerge suggesting that the qualifying rounds, a group of mini playoff series that have been added on to the traditional 16 team format, will kick off on the 30th of July following training camps and an exhibition game for each team. 

One issue that has not yet been addressed however is, surprisingly enough, where these games will be taking place. Despite the relative close proximity to when the league is set to resume its activities the NHL is still mulling over the two locations that will serve as its "Hub" cities, although there have been reports over the weekend suggesting that we are getting close to a resolution on that front. The latest comes from TSN NHL insider Pierre LeBrun who claims that the list has been narrowed down to just 6 teams, 4 of which he identified in his reporting.

From LeBrun:

My understanding is that the NHL has cut the list of Hub cities to 6 teams from the original 10. The list still includes all three Canadian cities. My sense is Vancouver and Edmonton rank ahead of Toronto. Obviously Vegas remains in the mix.

Although we had not heard much about Vancouver leading up to this point in the discussion regarding the Hub cities, LeBrun's view of them as a favorite does appear to be correct. Earlier today numerous reports emerged suggesting that the city located on the coast of British Columbia, Canada had suddenly become a favorite in the discussion and was even expected to be among the two teams named when all is said and done.

The NHL will have a very short time to make the appropriate arrangements and reservations once the decision has officially been made, although I suppose it is fair to say that they likely won't have much competition for venues given the way everything has shut down. I for one am just looking forward to some hockey, and hopefully an exciting playoff run.