The WHL still plans on holding a full 68-game regular season and playoffs, but they are pushing the start date of the season back.

The league announced Thursday the 2020-21 campaign will open Friday, December 4.

As part of the WHL’s commitment to the health and safety of its players, officials, staff, and fans, the opening date remains contingent on receiving the necessary approvals from the government and health authorities in each of the six provincial / state jurisdictions in WHL territory.

In a statement, the league says it continues to have regular discussions with government and health authorities on the extensive safety measures the WHL is prepared to take to protect players, staff, and fans, and to address key issues such as spectator capacities and border crossings and that making this move will give them additional time to work on these issues with the various provinces, states and countries.

“Regardless of our start date, the WHL is committed to playing a full Regular Season and Playoffs in 2020-21,” stated WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. “In our discussions with the government and health authorities, it has become apparent that additional time is required to ensure we can return to play in a safe and responsible manner. Our WHL health and safety protocols have been well received by the health authorities but we have several key issues that we will need to reach a resolution on in the coming months.”