The NHL is considering temporary realignment for the 2021 season. This makes sense, as the travel restrictions coming with COVID-19 are going to impact the league. The NHL is the only league where international travel is a significant concern (Canada). Until the US gets its collective acts together and has federal and state guidelines to follow, then a normal regular season won’t be possible.
1. The realignment, according to Greg Wyshynski, would have four divisions: Canada, East, Central, and West. Obviously the Canadian Division is to limit international travel. It’s not ideal, but it at least gives us some hockey.