NHL still plans on playoffs in Canada, but U.S. bubble an option

The NHL is still planning on having the four North Division teams that make the playoffs “play in their own cities” despite COVID-19 cases rising throughout Canada, according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman. However, one situation that could be considered is a scenario in which the four Canadian teams in the postseason “go to a bubble in the United States.” Friedman said a U.S. bubble “eliminates the concern about the Canadian team that advances (to the Conference Finals) and travels back-and-forth over the border.” Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston added this could be “how the Canadian teams get vaccinated, by going to the U.S.” ( “HNIC,” Sportsnet, 4/17).