The more and more you read what is being bandied about from the NHL you start to realize that an expanded playoff is the most likely return scenario. Yes, the top 4 teams from each conference would in essence receive a 1st round bye in a 5 round tournament. Or the bottom 4 teams could play a “wild card” playoff scenario before the traditional 16 team tournament starts.
Neutral Sites?
Where the games would be played is still undetermined. The NHL has indeed started talks with neutral sites in North Dakota and New Hampshire but both would be a challenge to host such a tournament.