American Hockey League cancels playoffs for first time in 84-year history

The American Hockey League, the sport’s top minor league, on Monday canceled the rest of its season and playoffs due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“After a lengthy review process, the American Hockey League has determined that the resumption and completion of the 2019-20 season is not feasible in light of current conditions,” President and CEO David Andrews said.

The AHL Board of Governors has voted to cancel the remainder of the 2019-20 AHL regular season and the 2020 Calder Cup Playoffs due to the ongoing COVID-19 public health crisis.

→ https://t.co/b8XoXIimHE pic.twitter.com/G1fafFhJHV

— AHL (@TheAHL) May 11, 2020

It is the first time in the league’s 84-year history that no Calder Cup champion will be crowned, according to The Associated Press.

The coronavirus pandemic has interrupted the season for multiple professional sports leagues. While some sports — like UFC and Formula 1 — plan to resume competitions but with no fans in attendance, many leagues have yet to make a decision on when to start back up.

The National Hockey League paused its season in March, and the league hasn’t made an announcement about the rest of its season or upcoming draft.

Deputy NHL Commissioner Bill Daly has warned that no matter when the draft is held, it will not be “typical.”

Anthony Fauci, who has helped lead the federal government’s response to the coronavirus, has said games are possible this year if “nobody comes to the stadium” and players are “tested every single week,” according to ESPN.