John Paddock. (File photo courtesy of Keith Hershmiller Photography)
The WHL believes it’s important to hit the ice for a 2020-21 season to help young hockey players develop and not miss out on a full season.
In an emailed statement, the league said the league provides a development opportunity for many young hockey stars.
“Unlike professional athletes, WHL players are amateur athletes who find themselves at a critical juncture, working to develop their skills in an effort to one day attain their goals of competing professionally. To facilitate that continued development, returning to play is important and the WHL is going to exhaust all options in order to do so,” the league said.