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NEW YORK (SNN-TV) – The NHL is hitting pause on its season starting tomorrow through Christmas Day in order to prevent further spread of COVID-19.

Yesterday, over 15% of the league’s players were put in virus protocols. In total, 11 teams had their seasons paused over outbreaks before the league decided to pause play.

The NHL will mandate all teams close their facilities from December 22nd through the 25th. If they stick with this plan, players will be allowed to return on Dec. 26 and games will resume a day later.  

Before the NHL pauses its season, it is allowing one game to proceed as scheduled – Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Vegas Golden Knights tonight in Las Vegas.

The decision to pause the season comes after the NHL tightened its virus protocols to include daily testing, enhanced social-distancing measures and player-travel restrictions.

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