NHL looking at plans if coronavirus spreads

[Roland99]

https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/28823987/nhl-looking-plans-coronavirus-spreads

BOCA RATON -- The NHL is "starting to explore contingency plans" should the coronavirus become a more significant health threat in North America ahead of the 2019-20 NHL playoffs, deputy commissioner Bill Daly told ESPN on Monday.

Daly did not rule out several options, such as postponing or canceling games, or even playing games in empty arenas.

"I think it's very unlikely -- knock on wood, I'm hopeful -- that we would progress to a stage where we have to consider something that dramatic," Daly said. "But certainly everything is possible, and we have to look at all possible contingencies. If it gets to that point, we will be ready."

The NHL, however, is unlikely to make a trip to China next season, as hoped. The league played preseason games in China in 2017 and 2018, but missed this past fall because of logistical issues with booking arenas. While the NHL was optimistic about a return ahead of the 2020-21 season, Daly said the outbreak has made it difficult to firm up plans.

I read earlier that March Madness (NCAA basketball tourney) could be played to empty arenas.

[underpants]

1. March Madness?????

[SharonClark]

5. Oh, no.

March Madness gets us through that last month of winter and causes Spring to happen. No March Madness then no Spring!

[underpants]

2. Found this

https://www.latimes.com/sports/story/2020-03-02/ncaa-march-madness-coronavirus-no-fans

[Roland99]

3. That's the one. Thanks

[SharonClark]

6. Wow, no fans but still on teevee?

That would be weird.

[underpants]

7. Soccer does it regularly

Mostly for team penalties.

[Sherman A1]

4. My local Table Top Miniatures Gaming Group is doing the same

We are currently looking at plans for cooperative solo gaming using social media as the contact method.

Anyone, company or organization that isn't at least giving some thought to potential disruptions is simply placing their head in the sand.